DUARTE, Ítala Layane.
Abstract:
Known as coité, cuieira or gourd, Crescentia cujete L. belongs to the Bignoniaceae family
having its origin in Tropical America, and can also be found in the Northeast region of Brazil,
having its greatest occurrence especially in Caatinga. Its pulp is used in folk medicine and
various disease treatments, its use can be attributed to the elaboration of handicrafts such as
musical instruments and household items. There is a scarcity of studies regarding this species,
which may result in its misuse. This work aimed to characterize the morphometry and chemical
composition of the fruit of the coité (Crescentia cujete L.). The morphometric and
physicochemical analyzes identified the total weight of the green and dried fruit, peel thickness,
transverse and longitudinal measurements, water content, pH, acidity, ash, ° Brix and water
activity. The analysis showed that the fruit has a large amount of water, acidity and ° Brix in
reasonable quantities indicating that it can be used for purposes other than crafts.
