Antioxidant compounds in hawthorn fruits (Crataegus spp.) of Mexico

Abstract

The content of phytochemicals associated with the antioxidant activity of the fruits of species of hawthorn (Crataegus spp.; Rosacea) located in Mexico is unknown. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the content of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, vitamin C and the antioxidant activity in a selection of Mexican hawthorn species. A quantification was made of total phenols, flavonoids and vitamin C (expressed on mg of phenol, quercetin and ascorbic acid per 100 g of fresh weight, respectively), in 10 g of fruits selected from each genotype; a total of 20 genotypes were sampled, these located in the germplasm bank of the Universidad Autónoma Chapingo, Mexico. The antioxidant activity was evaluated by the DPPH method, expressed as mean inhibitory concentration (IC50). Content of total phenols, flavonoids and vitamin C cannot be associated with the origin and species of the samples. Some genotypes from the state of Chiapas could be considered to have a higher potential for commercial use and consumption due to their nutraceutical quality. Most of the fruits of the 20 genotypes of hawthorn presented a content of phenolic compounds higher than that described for other fruits (lychee fruits, peaches and strawberries); these nutraceutical characteristics provide an added value to the fruit.