Antioxidant and insecticidal properties of Euphorbia helioscopia L. Aqueous extracts

Abstract

The phytochemical composition, the antioxidant and the insecticidal activities of Tunisian Euphorbia helioscopia L. (Euphorbiaceae) leaves and the flower's aqueous extracts were revealed. A variation in phenolic and flavonoid contents was observed between samples. Leaves aqueous extract revealed the best phenolic contents (25.2 mg GAE/g DW). However, flower extracts were characterized by the highest flavonoid contents (8.53 mg RE/g DW). The level of antioxidant capacity estimated by free radical scavenging activity (DPPH) varied significantly among organs. Leaves aqueous extract revealed the best results (IC50=35.11 µg/ml). E. helioscopia aqueous extracts were also evaluated for their insecticidal effect against Tribolium castaneum, with three concentrations 10 (T1), 5 (T2), and 2.5% (T3). Probit analysis revealed that flower aqueous extracts of E. helioscopia exhibited the lowest LC50 with 2.9 mg/mL.