Evaluation of antioxidant activity of Murraya koenigii (L.) Spreng using different in vitro methods

Abstract

The present study investigates the phytochemical composition and antioxidant potential of three different extracts of Murraya koenigii. Murraya koenigii (Linn.) Spreng, locally known as “curry veppila” (curry leaf tree) belonging to the Rutaceae family, is commonly used as raw material for traditional medicinal formulation in India. Evaluating the phytochemical composition and antioxidant potential becomes essential if it is to be consumed as a drug. Three different extracts (Methanol, Hydro alcohol and Aqueous) of Murraya koenigii leaves were screened for their phytochemical composition and antioxidant activity using standard protocols. The results of phytochemical analysis reveals the presence of tannins, saponins, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, phytosterols and triterpenoids in various extracts. The total phenolics and flavonoids were rich in hydroalcoholic extracts. Hydroalcoholic extract shows strong antioxidant activity. Result of the present study shows that hydroalcoholic extract of Murraya koenigii was rich in phenolics and flavonoids and have strong antioxidant potential. The strong antioxidant potential of the plant may be due to its high phenolics and flavonoids content.