Exploring Hylocereus spp and Its Potential Applications: A Review

• Published in: Malaysian Journal of Chemistry
• Main Author: Salleh N.S.I.M.; Hamid H.A.A.; Hadzir N.M.; Puasa S.W.; Hamzah N.; Som A.M.
• Format: Review
• Language: English
• Published: Malaysian Institute of Chemistry 2023
• Online Access: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85181578340&doi=10.55373%2fmjchem.v25i5.130&partnerID=40&md5=c83d4005509079dd133b07740ef91f06

This review plans to provide an overview of the Hylocereus spp as a whole, focusing on their morphology, how they are propagated and cultivated, what are the optimum conditions for them to be propagated and cultivated in, their nutritional and medicinal benefits, and the application of these plants in different industries such as cosmeceuticals, food and beverage, wastewater treatment, and its potential uses in oil and gas industry. Pitaya is becoming increasingly popular as a staple crop in different countries across various regions from Central America to Asia due to its rich nutritional make-up making it an excellent source of dietary fibre, vitamins, fructose, and minerals. Moreover, cultivators are attracted to this plant species due to their relatively high yield and the crop’s longevity, with one plant lasting up to 25-30 years. At the moment, there is very little information on maximising the full potential of this plant’s uses and benefits to consumers and industries across the world. Hence, this review may provide a guideline and detailed background to develop a better understanding of the pitaya plant including the fruits as well as the by-products, and expand the market and its applications in different industries. © 2023 Malaysian Institute of Chemistry. All rights reserved.