Phytochemical Composition Research Articles

Botany, phytochemistry, pharmacology and ecological status of Rauvolfia Plum. ex. L. (Apocynaceae) from the Southern Western Ghats: A review

Rauvolfia species of the family Apocynaceae (Dogbane family) are a rich source of pharmaceutical compounds. This genus includes shrubs and evergreen trees distributed across tropical and subtropical forests. Five Rauvolfia species are found in the Southern Western Ghats of India namely, R. serpentina, R. tetraphylla, R. densiflora, R. micrantha and R. beddomei. Due to their phytochemical composition, include alkaloids, flavonoids and terpenes. Rauvolfia species have been traditionally used to treat various ailments, including epilepsy, hypertension, snake bites among other ailments. Amongst these, R. serpentina is widely used in traditional and modern medicine as a primary source of reserpine alkaloid. However, the escalating demand for their medicinal properties has led to adulteration practices with compromised plant quality. This review compiles information on the biogeography, taxonomy, morphology, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacology, economic significance, cytogenetics, propagation and adulteration issues of Rauvolfia in the Southern Western Ghats of India. These facets of the review address the challenges associated with exploiting the plant species and provide insights into their current research status in the context of the region's biodiversity and medicinal heritage.

The Effect of the Ethanolic Extracts from Syzygium aromaticum and Syzygium nervosum on Antiproliferative Activity and Apoptosis in HCT116 and HT-29 Cells

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most diagnosed cancer worldwide, and p53 dysfunction plays a significant role in its pathogenesis by impairing cell cycle control and apoptosis. This study aimed to elucidate the phytochemical composition and anticancer potential of extract of residue from clove hydrodistillation (Syzygium aromaticum, SA) and seed extract from Syzygium nervosum (SN). LC-DAD-MS/MS analysis identified gallic acid (2.68%) and ellagic acid (6.70%) as major constituents in SA, while SN contained gallic acid (0.26%), ellagic acid (3.06%), and 2′,4′-dihydroxy-6′-methoxy-3′,5′-dimethylchalcone (DMC) as major constituents. Both extracts exhibited potent antioxidant effects as evidenced by DPPH and ABTS assays. In vitro assays showed that SA and SN significantly inhibited the proliferation of HCT116 (p53 wild-type) colorectal cancer cells, with minimal effects on HT-29 (p53 mutant) cells. Apoptosis was confirmed in HCT116 via Annexin V-FITC/PI staining and increased caspase-3/7 activity. Cell cycle analysis revealed sub-G1 accumulation, accompanied by upregulated p21 and concurrently downregulated cyclin D1 expression, both hallmarks of p53-mediated checkpoint activation. These molecular effects were not observed in HT-29 cells. In conclusion, SA and SN extracts selectively induce apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in p53-functional CRC cells, likely mediated by their phenolic constituents. These findings support their potential as promising plant-derived therapeutic agents for targeted colorectal cancer treatment.

Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry based Phytochemical Profiling of Marine Macroalga Ulva compressa Methanol Extract

Marine macroalgae are widely recognized as vital sources of bioactive compounds, having prospective applications in pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and biotechnology. As global demands for natural therapeutics continue to grow, marine macroalgae, especially Ulva species, have emerged as a promising candidate due to their diverse profiles of phytochemicals. In such cases, qualitative phytochemical analysis is fundamental in determining these bioactive constituents, as well as their potential functional activities. In this study, the methanolic extract of Ulva compressa was subjected to Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry analysis in both positive (ESI+) and negative (ESI-) Electrospray Ionization modes to characterize its phytochemical composition in detail. Using ESI-, a total of 66 phytochemicals were detected, and 29 by ESI+, showing the phytochemical richness of the marine alga. The detected phytochemicals belonged to many biologically vital chemical classes, which include flavonoids, phenolics, peptides, fatty acids, lipids, terpenoids, and glycosides. These findings support the application of Ulva compressa as a marine-based resource for drug discovery and functional product development. This work also highlights the potential of LC-MS as an effective technique for marine phytochemical profiling, providing in-depth molecular insights. Keywords: LC-MS, Phytochemical Profiling, Ulva compressa

Gamma Irradiation Effects on Salvia hispanica L. seeds in M2 Generation: A comprehensive study of genetic variation and phytochemical responses

Gamma irradiation is a powerful tool in mutation breeding, promising to boost plant productivity and yield while influencing phytochemical composition and morphological traits. This study focuses on understanding the effects of gamma irradiation on Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) seed development, encompassing germination, growth, and photochemical properties. Ionizing radiation has proven to be a potent physical agent in mutation breeding initiatives, potentially enhancing plant productivity and yield. A comprehensive analysis was conducted, encompassing the application of distinct gamma irradiation doses ranging from (0, 50,100, 150, 200, and 250 Gy) in M1(2021-22) and M2 (2022-23) and oils were extracted in M2 generation using the Soxhlet technique. Various parameters, including sterol composition, fatty acid composition, tocopherol content, and fatty acid value (FAV), were meticulously analyzed using the Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) technique. Increased phytochemical viz., Alpha-linolenic acid (60.23%), Linoleic acid methyl ester (19.78%), and Palmitic acid (11.96%) were obtained at 100 Gy irradiation that had not been reported in earlier research. Therefore, the potential of gamma irradiation to enhance chia seeds’ nutritional and phytochemical properties exists. This insight holds promise for advancing seed development and overall plant performance, offering valuable prospects for crop improvement and the creation of nutrient-rich agricultural products.

Extraction and Identification of Volatile Compounds from Ocimum gratissimum Using Gas Chromatography

Ocimum gratissimum is a well-known aromatic plant extensively utilized in traditional medicine due to its wide range of therapeutic effects, which are attributed to its complex phytochemical composition. This research aims to extract bioactive constituents from the leaves of Ocimum gratissimum and identify them using Gas Chromatography (GC). The plant material underwent drying, powdering, and ethanolic extraction. The concentrated extract was then analyzed using GC to detect both volatile and semi-volatile compounds. The chromatographic analysis identified several significant constituents, including eugenol, thymol, and other terpenoids, which are associated with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. These results highlight the phytochemical richness of Ocimum gratissimum and establish the utility of GC as an analytical tool for evaluating herbal extracts. The study supports the traditional medicinal use of the plant and opens avenues for further pharmacological exploration. Keywords: Ocimum gratissimum, Gas Chromatography, Herbal Extraction, Phytochemicals, Eugenol, Medicinal Herbs, Volatile Compounds.

The Traditional Uses, Nutrition, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacology of the Medicinal Abrus Species: A Comprehensive Review.

The genus Abrus Adans. (Fabaceae), widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions, includes four medicinally important species in China with significant therapeutic potential. Notably, Abrus precatorius L. has been traditionally used to treat headaches, wind-phlegm disorders, and carbuncles. Abrus cantoniensis Hance and Abrus mollis Hance are valued in ethnomedicine as hepatoprotective agents, whereas Abrus pulchellus Wall. ex Thwaites shows confirmed medicinal properties. Beyond their therapeutic applications, Abrus species are valued as nutraceutical resources, traditionally prepared as beverages, teas, or functional soups in dietotherapy. However, their widespread utilization is constrained by the presence of toxic compounds such as abrin and pulchellin. Phytochemical analyses have identified numerous bioactive constituents in these plants, including flavonoids, alkaloids, triterpenoid saponins, organic acids, amino acids, and aliphatic compounds. These compounds exhibit multifaceted pharmacological effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiparasitic, antimicrobial, antitumor, and hepatoprotective effects. This review systematically examines the traditional uses, nutritional value, phytochemical composition, pharmacological properties, and toxicity profiles of medicinal Abrus species in China, providing up-to-date information on their therapeutic potential.

In vitro and in silico evaluation of phytocompounds from Leucaena leucocephala and Entada phaseoloides targeting DNA gyrase, topoisomerase II, AKT1.

Medicinal plants are rich in bioactive phytochemicals with the potential to treat various ailments, including cancer and infectious diseases.Leucaena leucocephalaandEntada phaseoloideshave long been used in traditional medicine for such conditions. This study investigated the phytochemical composition, antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer potential of methanolic pod extracts of both species through integrated in vitro and in silico approaches.L. leucocephalaexhibited higher total phenolic content (49.02 ± 0.43 GAE/g) and total flavonoid content (77.95 ± 0.32 QE/g) than E. phaseoloides (TPC: 42.30 ± 0.13 GAE/g; TFC: 72.90 ± 0.42 QE/g). Phytochemicals were characterized via FTIR and LC-MS, identifying 54 compounds. Antioxidant activity assessed by DPPH and ABTS assays showed stronger radical scavenging inL. leucocephala(IC50: 51.53 ± 0.40 and 38.68 ± 0.20µg/mL) than inE. phaseoloides(IC50: 73.29 ± 0.48 and 64.63 ± 0.29µg/mL). Cytotoxicity assays against HeLa cells demonstrated potent anticancer activity, with IC50 values of 3.83 ± 0.07µg/mL forL. leucocephalaand 4.71 ± 0.06µg/mL forE. phaseoloides.In silico ADMET profiling, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations identified key bioactive compounds with strong binding affinities toward Topoisomerase II, DNA gyrase, and AKT1. Protein-ligand complexes showed high stability through consistent RMSD, low RMSF, strong hydrogen bonding, and stable SASA values, supporting their therapeutic relevance. This is the first comprehensive pharmacological study on pod extracts ofL. leucocephalaandE. phaseoloidesfrom Mizoram, India. The findings provide compelling evidence for their development as promising candidates for antibacterial and anticancer drug discovery.

Sensory Acceptability and Characterizationof Papaya Flower (Carica papaya) Syrup: An Alternative Sweetener

This study aimed to develop and evaluate a syrup made from Carica papaya (papaya flower) tincture as an alternative sweetener, focusing on its phytochemical composition, sensory acceptability, and nutritional profile. Sensory evaluation of three syrup formulations with varying levels of tincture concentrations—was conducted with 120 purposively selected respondents composed of TLE/TVL students and food experts, who assessed the products based on appearance, aroma, taste, texture, and composite appeal using a 9-point hedonic scale.The study employed a descriptive and experimental research design and was conducted at the Food Technology Innovation Center of Surigao del Norte State University. Mean and standard deviation were used to describe sensory ratings. Repeated measures MANOVA and Bonferroni tests were conducted to determine significant differences among the three formulations. Nutritional content was determined through chemical analysis based on the 100-gram sample and standard dietary references.The results revealed that Formulation B (between 50% and 100% tincture concentration) was the most preferred in all sensory attributes. Nutritional analysis also showed that the formulation was low in calories, fat, sodium, and protein, making it suitable for health-conscious individuals. The study concludes that papaya flower syrup, particularly Formulation B, has strong potential as a natural, plant-based sweetener that supports sustainable food innovation, local agricultural utilization, and health-forward consumer preferences.

Sensory Acceptability and Characterizationof Durian Rind Tart

This study explored the development and evaluation of an alternative flour derived from durian (Durio zibethinus) rind, with the goal of using it as a primary ingredient in tart formulations. Specifically, it assessed the phytochemical composition of durian rind and its incorporation into three tart formulations evaluated for sensory acceptability in terms of appearance, aroma, taste, texture, and overall appeal. The research also analyzed the nutritional and physicochemical properties of the most preferred formulation. The study employed a descriptive and mixed-methods design, with laboratory and sensory evaluation conducted at Surigao del Norte State University's Food Technology Innovation Center. Data were gathered from 120 respondents, including food experts and consumers, and were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, means, standard deviations, MANOVA for repeated measures, Bonferroni tests, and ANOVA with Scheffé's post hoc analysis. Results revealed that durian rind contains beneficial phytochemicals, and among the three formulations, Formulation B consistently received the highest ratings across all sensory attributes. Significant differences were observed among formulations. Nutritional and physicochemical analyses further supported the viability of Formulation B as a moderately healthy and stable tart product, highlighting its potential for commercial and sustainable food applications.

Impact of millet as a sustainable functional ingredient on nutritional and functional value of a novel kishk product

Millet is a nutrient-rich, drought-tolerant crop that can contribute to food security. Therefore, the world has recently become more interested in applying millet as a sustainable ingredient in foods. This study aimed to evaluate millet grains as a sustainable functional ingredient in novel functional kishk at 25, 50, 75, and 100% ratios compared to the control made from burghul. The impact of millet uses on physicochemical and phytochemical composition, as well as the microbial analysis of functional kishk was examined. The sensory properties of the fresh kishk were studied by 10 well-trained panelists using 9-point hedonic scale. The results indicated that millet kishk had higher protein (19.24–21.62%) and ash (1.52–2.14%) compared to the control (18.16% and 1.45%), respectively. Replacing burghul with millet reduced the fat content from 14.57% (control) to 10.70% (at replacement 100%). Moreover, millet increases essential amino acid content, dietary fiber, iron, zinc, phosphorus content, and probiotic survival rate as well as antioxidant activity in millet kishk. Sensory evaluation results indicated that all functional kishk were accepted. The substitution of 50% millet recorded the highest score, while the 100% replacement was the lowest. The color parameters (L and b values) decreased with the replacement of millet. Conclusion, the panelists approved the potential use of millet as a sustainable, innovative ingredient to enrich the nutritional and functional properties of kishk. Utilizing millet as whole grains in kishk production represents an innovative strategy. This approach will promote self-sufficiency and decrease grain importation for food applications.

Phytochemical profile and antimicrobial activity of individual frond extracts of Menisorus pauciflorus, Pteris catoptera, Conniogramme africana and Antrophyum mannianum

IntroductionFerns have potential antimicrobial compounds but are understudied compared to higher plants. This limits our knowledge of their phytochemical composition and antimicrobial properties, despite their traditional use to treat various ailments. Therefore, this study profiled the phytochemical composition and evaluated the antimicrobial activity of four fern species, namely; Menisorus pauciflorus (Hook.) Alston, Pteris catoptera (Kunze.), Conniogramme africana (Hieron.) and Antrophyum mannianum (Hook.).MethodsFern fronds were collected from Kalinzu Central Forest Reserve (KCFR), cleaned with distilled water, and dried under shade at room temperature for two weeks. Dry fronds were ground using an electric blender into a powder and extracted by means of infusion and cold maceration, using distilled water and 70% ethanol as extraction solvents, respectively. Preliminary qualitative screening and a UV-VIS-spectrophotometer were used for phytochemical profiling by recording the presence (+) or absence (-) and quantities of the selected phytochemical classes, respectively. The antimicrobial activity (zones of inhibition) was determined by Agar well diffusion assay while the minimum inhibitory concentrations were determined using micro-broth dilution in 96-well microplates. The minimum bactericidal concentrations and minimum fungicidal concentrations were determined by subculturing technique.ResultsFern extracts contain various phytochemical compounds, such as phenols, tannins, saponins, anthraquinones, terpenoids, and flavonoids, with phenols being the most abundant. The antimicrobial activity of both water and ethanol extracts was higher against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus and lower against Candida albicans. The antibacterial activity was generally greater against E. coli than against S. aureus. The ethanolic extract of A. mannianum had the lowest minimum inhibitory concentration (3.91 mg/mL) and minimum bactericidal concentration (7.81 mg/mL) against E. coli. The A. mannianum aqueous and ethanol extracts, and the M. pauciflorus ethanol extract had the lowest minimum fungicidal concentration (125 mg/mL) against C. albicans. The C. africana ethanol extract at various concentrations (1000, 500, 250, and 125 mg/mL), produced larger inhibition zones against S. aureus (up to 32.67 mm) than did ciprofloxacin (20.77 mm).ConclusionsAll the M. pauciflorus, P. catoptera, C. africana, and A. mannianum extracts presented variable secondary metabolite contents, but the concentration of phenols was greater than that of flavonoids and saponins. The extracts possess antimicrobial bioactive agents but weak activity against E. coli, S. aureus and C. albicans. We recommend more studies on the effect of these fern extracts on other bacterial and fungal strains to prove their antimicrobial potential on various pathogenic bacteria and fungi.

Effects of Solvents on Phytochemical Composition and Biological Activity of Solanum nigrum Leaf Extracts.

Solanum nigrum leaf extracts demonstrate potential for use in cancer therapy owing to their high saponin content; however, the effect of solvent choice on phytochemical yield and biological activity remains unclear. This study evaluated the antioxidant and chemopreventive properties of S. nigrum leaf extracts prepared using different organic solvents at varying concentrations alongside phytochemical characterization via UPLC-QTOF/MS. The 50% and 70% acetone extracts exhibited the strongest antioxidant effects in DPPH and ABTS assays and demonstrated cytotoxicity against HepG2, HCT116, A375, and HeLa cell lines. A total of 32 compounds were identified. Multivariate analysis-including principal component analysis, hierarchical cluster analysis, and loading plots-revealed that solvent-water mixtures significantly enhanced extraction efficiency; 70% and 30% acetone were optimal for extracting furostane-type and spirostane-type saponins, respectively. Moreover, saponin levels are strongly correlated with antioxidant/chemopreventive activity. These findings provide a basis for maximizing the therapeutic potential and compound yields of S. nigrum leaves.

Alphonsea elliptica (Hook.f. and Thomson) methanol leaves extract obliterates inflammatory processes in LPS-induced human plasma.

In our previous findings, the methanol extract of A. elliptica (MEL) exhibited platelet-activating factor inhibition, indicating possible anti-inflammatory properties. Despite its ethnopharmacological significance, no studies have thoroughly investigated its anti-inflammatory potential. Based on our preliminary findings, we hypothesised that MEL might exert anti-inflammatory effects by modulating key inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and IL-6). The cytotoxicity of MEL was assessed on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. In vitro, anti-inflammatory activity was investigated in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced human plasma through an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and a radioimmunoassay. In addition, the phytochemical profile of MEL was characterised using LC-ESI-MS/MS spectrometry. The extract demonstrated no cytotoxic effects at 20μg/mL concentrations. MEL exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity, with notable inhibition of PGE2 (76.18%) and COX-2 (80.12%), as well as pronounced reductions in IL-1β and IL-6 levels, corresponding to 11.6-fold and ninefold decreases at 10μg/mL, respectively. Concentration-dependent effects were observed, with IC₅₀ values of 4.09, 5.81, 2.12, and 1.97μg/mL for PGE2, COX-2, IL-1β, and IL-6, respectively. LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis revealed the presence of 30 bioactive compounds, including Gramine, Eruberin B, and Grossamide, which likely contributed to the extract's anti-inflammatory effects. In conclusion, MEL abrogated LPS-induced inflammatory responses in human plasma at non-cytotoxic concentrations, demonstrating its potential as a natural anti-inflammatory agent. Furthermore, this study is the first to report the phytochemical composition of A. elliptica leaves, providing insights into its bioactive constituents and therapeutic potential.

Solvent polarity-driven phytochemical profiling and antioxidant evaluation of Indian Persimmon (Diospyros kaki Thunb.) fruit extracts

The present study investigates the phytochemical composition and antioxidant potential of Indian Persimmon (Diospyros kaki Thunb.) extracts obtained using ten different solvents with varying polarity. Soxhlet extraction was employed to obtain the extracts, with hydroethanolic solvent yielding the highest extractable content. Qualitative phytochemical screening revealed the presence of key bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, phenolics, alkaloids, terpenoids, saponins, tannins and significant levels of sugar across all extracts. Quantitative estimations indicated that Acetone extract of D. kaki (7.23±0.5 mg GAE/g) and Ethyl acetate extract of D. kaki (4.54±0.01 mg QE/g) were particularly rich in total phenolics and flavonoids, while Aqueous extract of D. kaki (1016±0.36 mg GE/g) and Hydroethanol extract of D. kaki (1015±0.79 mg GE/g) exhibited higher carbohydrate content. Uronic acid and reducing sugar levels were also prominent in the Acetone extract of D. kaki (395.14±0.32 & 1255±2 mg GluA/g), suggesting efficient extraction of pectic and simple sugar fractions. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) radical scavenging assays. Among the tested extracts, Ethyl acetate extract of D. kaki (28.96 & 33.19 μg/mL) and Acetone extract of D. kaki (127.6 & 18.43 μg/mL) demonstrated notable antioxidant capacities, with IC50 values closely approaching that of the standard BHT in both assays. These findings underscore the influence of solvent polarity on phytochemical recovery and bioactivity, with mid-polar solvents proving most effective in extracting antioxidant constituents. The results highlight D. kaki fruit as a promising natural source of antioxidants with potential therapeutic applications, particularly in managing oxidative stress-related disorders such as colon cancer.

Rubus ulmifolius leaves as a promising natural remedy: focus on antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective activities

ABSTRACT This study investigates the phytochemical composition, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective activity of Rubus ulmifolius leaf extract. LC-ESI-MS analysis was used to assess the phytochemical composition of the extract of Rubus ulmifolius. The Folin–Ciocalteu test was used to measure the total phenolic content. The DPPH test was used to measure antioxidant activity, while the MTT assay was used to measure cytotoxicity against RAW 264.7 macrophages. The Griess reagent was used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity in vitro. The natural extract of Rubus ulmifolius was evaluated for its hepatoprotective properties against acute liver damage caused by CCL4. Phytochemical analysis showed that quinic acid was found to be the major compound in this extract. Results showed a potent antioxidant potential (IC50 value of 0.021 ± 0.003 mg/mL) and a high total phenolic content of 343.02 ± 10.39 mg GAE/g. Notably, Rubus ulmifolius extract significantly inhibited nitrite formation (IC50 = 122.5 ± 0.62 µg/mL) while demonstrating low cytotoxicity against macrophages, as indicated by a high selectivity index (SI = 20.67). This extract improves oxidative stress and liver function parameters, according to the hepatoprotective study. These findings indicate that Rubus ulmifolius extract is a promising source of bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic applications in inflammatory diseases and liver disorders.

Phytochemical Composition and Biological Activities of the Lichen Usnea aciculifera in the Southern Vietnam.

In our search for bioactive natural products from the lichen species in Vietnam, Usnea aciculifera Vain (Parmeliaceae) in particular, two new depsides (1 and 2), one new monocyclic phenolic (3), and seven known (4-10) were isolated. The α-glucosidase inhibitory ability of 1-10 was assessed in vitro and further analyzed by molecular docking. Besides, the two new depsides were also assayed for their cytotoxicity against three human cancer cell lines (KB, MCF-7, and HepG2) and a normal human lung fibroblast (WI-38). As a result, 1-10 exhibited similar or superior α-glucosidase inhibition activity (IC50 values ranging from 18.60 to 93.19µM) than the positive standard, acarbose (IC50=100.02µM). Furthermore, molecular docking evaluation suggested that effective α-glucosidase inhibition can be achieved by firmly blocking Site 1 while extending the structure toward Site 2 enhances the bioactivity if done correctly. As for the cytotoxicity of compounds 1 and 2, they both exhibited moderate activity against the three cancer cell lines (IC50 values ranging from 18.11 to 30.28µM).

Phytochemical profiling, in silico molecular docking for antioxidant activity, and corrosion inhibition properties of Pistacia lentiscus L. extract

ABSTRACT Pistacia lentiscus L. is a medicinal and aromatic plant valued for its phytochemical richness and biological activities. This study investigates the phytochemical composition, antioxidant potential, and corrosion inhibition properties of P. lentiscus extract. The extraction was performed using the decoction method, and the phytochemical screening revealed key bioactive compounds, including tannins, flavonoids, alkaloids, sterols, and triterpenes. Six phenolic compounds were identified by high-performance liquid chromatography, with gallic acid being the most abundant (91.70 ± 0.43 mg/g), followed by rutin (5.25 ± 0.01 mg/g) and parahydroxybenzoic acid (2.83 ± 0.01 mg/g). The antioxidant activity was evaluated using DPPH and FRAP assays. In the DPPH assay, the extract exhibited an IC50 value of 4.18 ± 0.005 µg/mL, which is comparable to ascorbic acid (IC50 = 2.80 ± 0.020 µg/mL). The FRAP assay revealed an EC50 of 0.27 ± 0.003 mg/mL, compared to ascorbic acid’s EC50 of 0.11 ± 0.001 mg/mL. In silico molecular docking studies showed that rutin and gallic acid had the highest binding affinities with the 4M6J active site. The extract demonstrated 83.26% corrosion inhibition efficiency on carbon steel in 1M HCl. This study suggests that P. lentiscus extract holds significant potential for therapeutic/industrial applications as a natural, eco-friendly resource.

Phytochemical Characterization and Antioxidant Activity of the Rare Purslane Portulaca johnstonii Henrickson (Portulacaceae).

Portulaca johnstonii is a rare purslane endemic to the arid zones of northern Mexico. Plants grow in calcareous and chalky soils with low humidity. This study aimed to characterize the phytochemical composition and evaluate the antioxidant activity of P. johnstonii Henrickson (Portulacaceae). Species identification was confirmed based on morphological and molecular characteristics. Antioxidant capacity was detected in the water and ethanolic extracts, and the water extract showed a higher antioxidant capacity. Metabolites were identified using mass spectrometry, and 93 phytochemical compounds were tentatively identified in the aqueous and ethanolic extracts. Terpenes, alkaloids, phenolics, glycosides, and their derivatives were also identified. The phytochemical composition of this species is similar to that of other species of Portulaca. This report on P. johnstonii phytochemical characterization and antioxidant activity provides information for evolutionary and ecophysiological studies of the genus and conservation strategies for the species and its environment. In addition, these findings support the potential of P. johnstonii as a promising model for studying antioxidant responses to environmental stressors and underscore its value as a potential source of bioactive compounds adapted to arid environments.

Effects of drying methods on phytochemical and antioxidant properties of Ocimum gratissimum (Lam.) leaves

Abstract Ocimum gratissimum (Lam.), commonly known as scent leaf or African basil, is a widely used aromatic herb with significant medicinal and nutritional value. The preservation of its bioactive compounds during post-harvest processing, particularly drying, is crucial for maintaining its therapeutic properties. This study investigated the effects of three drying methods – oven drying, sun drying, and air drying – on the phytochemical composition and antioxidant properties of Ocimum gratissimum leaves. The results revealed that oven drying achieved the highest moisture reduction (55.57%), followed by sun drying (46%) and air drying (35.41%). Phytochemical analysis demonstrated that oven-dried samples retained the highest levels of saponins (73.00 mg/g), total phenols (127.87 g/mg), and cardiac glycosides (7.22 g/mg). Antioxidant properties, assessed using ABTS and DPPH assays, showed no significant difference in ABTS radical scavenging activity across all drying methods (0.02 Mmol/g). However, oven drying exhibited the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity (71.74%). These findings suggest that oven drying is the most effective method for preserving the phytochemical and antioxidant properties of Ocimum gratissimum leaves, making it suitable for applications in pharmaceuticals, functional foods, and nutraceuticals. This study provides valuable insights into optimizing drying techniques to enhance the shelf life and therapeutic efficacy of medicinal herbs.

Supercritical Fluid Extraction of Peruvian Schinus molle Leaves: Yield, Kinetics, Mathematical Modeling, and Chemical Composition

According to the literature, Schinus molle (SM) is an important source of bioactive phytochemicals, but the phytochemical content and composition of this species, which grows in high Andean geographic zones such as Tarma (Peru), is not known. In an effort to fill this gap, our work investigated the supercritical carbon dioxide extraction of SM leaves at three temperature levels (35, 45, and 55 °C) and three pressure levels (150, 250, and 350 bar). The results revealed the highest yield of extract at 150 bar, 45 °C, and 3.28 g CO2/min. Under these conditions, the overall extraction curves (OEC) were modeled using the Spline, logistic, and Esquível models, allowing the generation of mass transfer parameters for SFE at the optimized conditions, resulting in a similar correlation with experimental data. Twenty-six compounds were identified in the SFE extract of SM leaves. The most abundant compound classes were sesquiterpenoids (57.17%), sesquiterpenes (24.50%), and triterpenoids (10.48%); of each class, the most abundant compounds were shyobunol (33.60%), bicyclogermacrene (12.68%), and lupeone (6.58%), respectively. The compounds detected possess bioactive properties that support further studies on the application of SFE extracts of SM as a functional ingredient in commercial products.