Phytochemical and Antioxidant Studies on Leaf Extracts of Muntingia calabura L.

Author(s): Ninan Jisha, A. Vysakh, V. Vijeesh and MS Latha

Abstract: Medicinal plants act as a storehouse of ingredients which can be exploited for its therapeutic values. Hence, they serve as an asset for pharmaceutical industries. The present investigation aims to describe the qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analysis and in vitro antioxidant activity of Muntingia calabura L. leaf extracts. The phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of phenolics, flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids and alkaloids in EEMC, MEMC and AEMC. The total phenolic and flavonoid content was found to be higher in MEMC. The antioxidant activity of various leaf extracts of Muntingia calabura L. was determined mainly by DPPH, ABTS+ and FRAP assays. In all the three antioxidant assays MEMC exhibited a greater potential to scavenge free radicals at its lower concentration. Muntingia calabura L. acts as an excellent source of biomolecules with highest free radical scavenging potential and hence very effective against oxidative stress related disorders.

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