Botanical Aspects, Nutritional Benefits and Cultivation of Elephant Foot Yam (Amorphophallus paeoniifolius)

Abstract

In recent years, there has been a significant shift toward exploring healthy foods and herbal medicines as people become more conscious of their health and well-being. Amorphophallus paeoniifolius is one of the potential plants in the genus that has high nutrient content, such as carbohydrates, protein, vitamins and minerals. This plant also possesses various health benefits including antibacterial, antioxidant, antitumor, analgesic and antidiarrhoeal due to the presence of phytochemicals. Amorphophallus paeoniifolius can be cultivated in various soil types and can thrive in adverse weather conditions, making it an excellent option for farmers to grow this plant as a crop in tropical and sub-tropical regions. This paper provides a comprehensive review of A. paeoniifolius from the updated literatures covering it’s botanical aspects, nutritional benefits and cultivation. Amorphophallus paeoniifolius offers multiple advantages that align with the goals of sustainable development and global health. By understanding the methods for cultivation and utilization, people can improve their food supply, diversify diets, and enhance resilience to environmental and economic challenges.