Quantitative estimation of rutin in rue (Ruta graveolens L.) cultivated in Iraq with the evaluation of its antioxidant activity

Abstract

Objective: This study was designed to estimate the quantity of the flavonoid glycoside (rutin) as an important active compound in rue plant grown in Iraq with the evaluation of its antioxidant activity. Methods: The cultivated rue plant at the garden of medicinal plant in the pharmacognosy and medicinal plants department was collected and dried at room temperature. Total flavonoids content was determined using aluminum chloride method, and a standard calibration curve is used for estimation of rutin glycoside. Antioxidant activity of the ethanolic extract was measured using the (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical). Results: The results were showed that 100 g of the plant produced 7 g powdered extract, and each gram of the extract contains 133 mg rutin. The extract showed a positive antioxidant activity as compared with standard quercetin. Conclusion: Ruta graveolens plant contains the flavonoid glycoside rutin which showed antioxidant activity; therefore, further studies are required to identify other constituents in this plant.