Ethnobotany, total phenolic and flavonoid content in the species Corymbia citriodora (Hook.) K.D. Hill & L.A.S. Johnson

Abstract

After the emergence of COVID-19, respiratory sequelae persisted, and one alternative worth reconsideration is Corymbia citriodora (Hook.) K.D. Hill & L.A.S. Johnson. The objective is to determine the ethnobotany and the total phenolic and flavonoid content of C. citriodora. The ethnobotanical information was gathered using a semi-structured questionnaire from herbalists in markets in the city of Trujillo, La Libertad, Peru. Corymbia citriodora was collected in Agallpampa, Otuzco, and identified in the Herbarium Truxillense. Three extracts were prepared and evaluated (infuse, decoct, and hydroethanolic). The total phenols were quantified using the Folin Ciocalteau method, and total flavonoids were quantified using the aluminum chloride method. Corymbia citriodora reported a higher medicinal use in bronchitis (39.1%), in the preparation of a frequent infusion, made from leaves, often in combination with Piper aduncum (35.7%). Total phenols and flavonoids were reported as 118.65 mg GAE and 33.95 mg QCE per gram of dried drug, with the hydroethanolic extract standing out. The high presence of phenolic and flavonoid bioactives is directly related to anti-inflammatory activity, suggesting that C. citriodora remains a viable option and demonstrates efficacy in a traditional context for improving respiratory conditions.