Antioxidant Activity and Polyphenolics of Fragaria nubicola: A Wild Edible Fruit Species of Himalaya

Abstract

The wild edible fruits of Fragaria nubicola (Family: Rosaceae) proved a prominent source of antioxidants and polyphenolics and can be supplemented for nutraceutical and food industries. The findings revealed speckled range of polyphenolics [i.e., phenolics (1.18–3.08); flavonoids (0.99–2.63); flavonols (0.95–1.80); tannins (0.73–1.42); proanthocyanidins (0.53–1.01) mg/g fresh weight, respectively] and vital antioxidant activities [i.e., ABTS (1.01–1.98); DPPH (1.43–3.82); FRAP (1.22–4.10); NO· (0.42–1.01) and OH· (0.63–1.11) mM AAE/100 g fresh weight, respectively]. Further, the fresh berries were recorded exceptional sources of bioactive constituents as compared to dried berries and pomace. Medium polarity solvent, namely the methanol, was recorded best based on neighbor-joining cluster and PCA analysis. The present result of the study provides preliminary information and will be helpful for developing a strategy for sustainable utilization for harnessing its potential.