XVI International Botanical Congess

Several plant materials had been investigated for valuing as a potential source of pectic with prophylactic properties, among them green sprouts of vine (Vitis Vinifera), goose-foot (Chenopodium), amaranth (Amaranthus), portulaca (Portulaca) e.c. But the most perspective pectin containing raw materials were the leaf stems of Common burdock (Arctium lappa). It has been established that these plants in fresh condition contain up to 1,9% of pectinic substance. In laboratory conditions we have produced a little quantity of pectin from all plants mentioned, and studied biochemical properties. The high quantity of free carboxile groups (16-18%) at total 2630% has been detected in burdock pectin. The degree of metoxilation was 13,8%, metoxile component - 9,5%, acetilic number - 0,3%, equivalent weight - 343, esterification degree - 46,8%. Properties indicated come to testify that burdock pectin belongs to the little esterificated group, with high free carboxile group content. It is well known that pectins with these properties have the maximal ability to connect heavy metals. Thus, we recommend burdock pectin for prophylactic and medicinal purposes against diseases caused by the influence of radionuclides, heavy metals, and toxins.