Chemical Properties of Greek Stump Chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.)

Abstract

This paper deals with the investigation of chemical properties (electrical conductivity, pH, buffer capacity, minerals) of the species Castanea sativa Mill. The quantitative determination of the extracts soluble in hot water and dichloromethane was conducted using a Soxhlet device and according to the American Standards ASTM D 1110-84 and ASTM D 1108-84, respectively. The results showed that Greek Chestnut is rich in nutrients and organic chemical compounds, which can have pharmaceutical applications, and can be used in food technology, cosmetics, natural health or skin care products. This is the first attempt to record the chemical characteristics of Greek Chestnut.