Preliminary Phytochemical Analysis and in Vitro Antioxidant Activity of Boscia arabica Leaves

Abstract

Boscia arabica (Capparaceae), popularly known as “Sarh”, is a plant utilized in Yemen in traditional medicine for treatment of many ailments, but very few studies have been carried out on this plant. The Boscia arabica leaves were selected to phytochemical analysis and evaluate antioxidant activity. Physico-chemical parameters of leaves powder were established and are within the acceptable ranges. The leaves powder was treated with various reagents and the mixture was observed under day light and under UV light to see the type of fluorescence. Different fluorescence colours were observed. Chemical analysis was carried out to determine the major chemical classes, phytoconstituents like carbohydrates, saponins, flavonoids, triterpenes, sterols and alkaloids were identified in studied extracts. The presence of phytoconstituents was further confirmed by thin layer chromatography and Rf values of developed spots were calculated with color intensity. Antioxidant activity of Boscia arabica leaf extracts was carried out via DPPH staining technique. The result of dot-blot assay showed yellow-coloured spots when stained with DPPH solution. The free radical scavenging activity of 80% methanol extract and it’s fractions was determined and antioxidants activity ranged from (14.81±3.22) for methanol 80% extract to (85.31±3.12) for n-butanol fraction. Ethyl acetate (84.30±2.44) and n-butanol (85.31±3.12) are exhibited high free radical scavenging activity when compared with quercetin (99.10±4.22). The results obtained in this study support the use of Boscia arabica in traditional medicine, which may be a promising source for the development of natural antioxidants.