Dipsacus fullonum L. leaves and roots - Identification of the components of the essential oils and alpha-amylase inhibitory activities of methanolic extracts

Abstract

Dipsacus fullonum L. syn. D. sylvestris is a biennial plant from the Dipsacaceae family. It grows in Europe, North Africa and Asia Minor. It has been used in folk medicine mainly to treat Lyme disease. This study was undertaken to identify and compare the components of the essential oils from dried and fresh roots, which are usually applied as medicinal agents, as well as those of the essential oils from dried and fresh leaves, used less frequently. The essential oils from the Dipsacus fullonum leaves and roots were analyzed by the GC and GC-MS analysis. 18 components were identified in the essential oil from the fresh leaves, whereas 37 were recognized in the oil from the dried leaves; 10 components were identified in the essential oil from the fresh roots and 40 in that from the dried roots. Phytol was the main component in the essential oil from the leaves, whereas n-hexadecanoic acid was predominant in the roots. The á-amylase inhibition has been proven for methanolic extracts of D. fullonum leaves and roots. The strongest activity was demonstrated by the extract from fresh leaves of D. fullonum and showed an effect about one hundred times weaker than acarbose.