Comparative analysis on bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity of Algerian fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) and Syrian cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) seeds

Abstract

Introduction: Natural products represent a gold mine for scientists looking for compounds for the treatment of health problems and diseases with their different biological and pharmacological activities. However, recent research is focused on finding natural sources of antioxidants. Objective: The objective of current research was to determine the phytochemical profile of Algerian fenu-greek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.), and Syrian cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) seeds in order to characterize their phenolic compounds and to determine their antioxidant activities. Methods: Total phenolic, flavonoids, condensed and hydrolysable tannins contents were quantified using Folin-Ciocalteu, aluminium chloride, vanillin and ferric chloride methods, respectively. Phenolic compounds were identified by HPLC method and antioxidant activity was measured using DPPH assay. Results: The higher amounts of total phenolic compounds, flavonoids, condensed and hydrolysable tannins were given by fenugreek. Results of HPLC analysis of our plants showed that eight phytochemical compounds were found in cumin extract, and seven molecules in fenugreek extract. Moreover, fenugreek possessed higher antioxidant activity. Conclusion: This study confirmed that our plants are a good source of phenolic contents and possess a high antioxidant activity.