Phenols, flavonoids and antioxidant activity of Jatropha multifida L. collected in Pindamonhangaba, Sao Paulo State, Brazil

Abstract

A number of herbs belonging to the genus Jatropha of Euphorbiaceae family are noted for their medicinal benefits. It has already been observed the antibacterial, antiinflammatory, antifungal, antioxidant activity, anti-tumor and others. They are also employed as ornamental plants and energy crops. Qualitative and quantitative methods were used for the evaluation of total phenols and flavonoids in the latex and leaves extract of Jatropha multifida Linn and their antioxidant activity. This study was able to confirm the presence of phenols and flavonoids in the samples analyzed and its antioxidant activity corroborating the use of latex of the plant in the pharmaceutical industry.