Allelopathic potential, nutritional qualities, and responses of Chenopodium quinoa (Willd.) to abiotic stress conditions-a review

Abstract

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is a pseudo cereal crop, which is considered a new alternative crop due to its high nutritional value and tolerance to environmental stresses. Its seeds are rich in proteins and amino acids (e.g., lysine, threonine, and methionine) that are deficient in other pseudo-cereal crops. It also contains essential fatty acids, such as linoleic, and alpha-linolenic acids, and high quantities of vitamins, e.g., riboflavin (B2), and tocopherol (vitamin E), and inorganic nutrients. It has a low glycemic value, is gluten-free, and has high levels of fibre and antioxidants, e.g., alpha-and gamma-tocopherol. In many studies, quinoa is reported to have allelopathic potential in plant growth and development. The aqueous extract from the roots and leaves of quinoa had various stimulatory effects on other plants. On the other hand, the aqueous extract from inflorescences exerted inhibitory activity on other plants. Furthermore, due to its high-stress tolerance, quinoa can be grown in different environments. The response of quinoa to abiotic stresses such as salinity, drought, heat, and frost are reported in the current review. Also, it provides a summary of the literature on allelopathic potential as well as the composition, chemistry, and nutritional properties of quinoa.