Antioxidant activity of Maytenus imbricata Mart., Celastraceae

Abstract

The free radical scavenging activity (FRS) using 2,2-diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), the reducer power and the total phenolic concentration of extracts and compounds isolated from leaves, branches and roots of Maytenus imbricata Mart. (Celastraceae) were evaluated. Some extracts, a mixture of phenolic compounds (MPC) and epicatechin showed higher RP and FRS (DPPH) activities in comparison with the standard butylhydroxyanisole (BHA) and galic acid (GA) used in assays. The ethyl acetate extract from leaves showed higher total phenolic content and also higher RP and FRS (DPPH) than the other extracts. These facts indicate that there are some relations between phenolic concentration in the extract and the antioxidant activity and the reducer power. The solvent used in the extraction process influences the chemical composition of the extracts and consequently its antioxidant and reducer power activities.