Vol. 7, Issue 4 (2018)

Author(s):
Shaiphali Saxena and PB Rao

Abstract:
Phytoconstituents via. GC-MS (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry), antioxidant potential, total phenolic and flavonoid content along with enzymatic antioxidants were examined in the leaves of Malvastrum coromandelianum (L.) Garcke, an invasive alien weed species. Crude extraction of plant leaves in aqua methanol and acetone (20:80) was prepared. Antioxidant analysis of both extracts was performed by using 2,2’-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), phosphomolybdenum (PM) assay, Fe²⁺ ion chelating activity (FCA), Fe³⁺ reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) accompanied with enzymatic assays (superoxide dismutase, catalase and peroxidase). Bioactive phytoconstituents were screened by GC-MS. Data analysis by ANOVA (using STPR 3) and significant range test by DMRT (using SPPS 16.0 version) were accomplished. Both aqua methanol (AM) and aqua acetone (AA) extracts were potent in all antioxidant assays in concentration dependent manner. However, the values were comparatively higher in AM than AA extracts except flavonoids, which was higher in AA than AM extract. GC-MS profiling of AM extract revealed 29 bioactive phytoconstituents categorized under phenols, fatty acids, flavonoids, vitamins and terpenes. The plant species may serve as a natural plant resource with immense antioxidative potential.