Antioxidant Potential and Identification of Elite Chemotype of Blumea Lacera (Burm.f.) Dc Germplasms Collected from Gangetic Plains, India

Abstract

This research paper investigates the antioxidant potential and identification of elite chemotype within Blumea lacera (Burm.f.) DC germplasms collected from the Gangetic plains, India. Blumea lacera, a traditionally significant medicinal plant, is known for its diverse pharmacological properties. In this study, leaves from various germplasms were subjected to thorough phytochemical analysis, aiming to elucidate their antioxidant activity and identify chemotypes with elevated bioactive compound content. The antioxidant potential of Blumea lacera was evaluated through in vitro assays, including DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) scavenging activity and FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power). Additionally, total phenolic and flavonoid contents were quantified spectrophotometrically. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLTC) was employed to identify and quantify specific antioxidant compounds. Results revealed substantial antioxidant activity across the germplasms, with notable variations in phenolic and flavonoid contents. HPLC analyses identified key antioxidants, shedding light on the chemotypic diversity within the species. Further, certain elite chemotypes exhibited significantly higher levels of specific bioactive compounds, signifying their potential for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications. This study contributes to the understanding of Blumea lacera's antioxidant potential and the identification of chemotypes with enhanced bioactivity. The elucidation of distinct chemotypes serves as a foundation for future breeding and conservation programs, facilitating the sustainable utilization of this valuable medicinal plant in pharmaceutical and healthcare industries.