Study of preservation and storage methods for Gmelina arborea (Gambhari) fruits

Abstract

Gambhari (Gmelina arborea Roxb.) is one of the important medicinal plants used in Ayurveda. In fresh fruits of Gambhari, the moisture content is higher and the rate of deterioration is also higher over a short period of time if not handled appropriately. So, the use of drying techniques is encouraged as it reduces postharvest losses and provides easiness in storage and transport, and ensures product availability throughout the year. This study aims to provide a drying method of preservation of Gambhari fruits for further use. Among the various drying techniques, the natural method of preservation of fruit i.e. sun drying was used for 15 days. The preservation method of Gambhari fruits was completed in total 6 steps that were collection, washing, spreading, drying, screening, packing and storage. The total time duration in drying was 15 days during which fruits were shrunk and reduced in size. The present study may encourage researchers in pharmaceutical and clinical research to easily understand about preservation and storage of Gambhari fruits.