Abstract

Extracts from the leaves of Ocimum gratissimum were investigated for phytochemical constituent and antioxidant activity. Tests for tannins, steroids, terpenoids, flavonoids and cardiac glycosides were positive in both methanolic and aqueous extracts. The methanolic extract of O. gratissimum had a DPPH scavenging activity of 84.6% at 250 µg/ml and a reductive potential of 0.77 at 100 µg/ml. These values were comparable with those of gallic acid, 91.4% at 250 µg/ml and ascorbic acid, 0.79 at 60 µg/ml as standards for DPPH scavenging activity and reductive potential, respectively. These findings suggest that the rich phytochemical content of O. gratissimum and its good antioxidant activity may be responsible for its popular and wide traditional use. Key words: Ocimum gratissimum, phytochemicals, antioxidant activity and reductive potential.

Full Text
Paper version not known

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.