Phytochemical screening and antioxidant evaluation by DPPH of Capparis cartilaginea Decne leaves

Abstract

Capparis cartilaginea Decne (Capparaceae) leaves are used in traditional medicine of Yemen for treatment of various illness. Phytochemical data about this plant has been not found before this study. The aim of this study was to determine the chemical composition and to evaluate the antioxidant activity of the these leaves. Phytochemicals such as carbohydrates, saponins, polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, triterpenes, sterols, amino acid and protein were found. The flavonoid and saponin content were 5.1% and 1.8% respectively. Thin layer chromatography of different extracts was performed. The antioxidant activity was evaluated by dot-blot and DPPH staining. Methanol and water extract showed high antioxidant activity when compared with standard quercetin at similar concentrations. In methanol extract seven antioxidant constituents were found and three flavonoids including rutin were detected. These results validate the exploitation of the studied medicinal plant, for further isolation of chemical constituents and their application in medicine.