EVALUATION OF PHYTOCHEMICALS AND FREE RADICAL SCAVENGING BEHAVIOR IN DIFFERENT PARTS OF SYZYGIUM CUMINI

Objective: The present study was aimed at free radical scavenging behaviour in leaves, bark and seeds of Syzygium cumini (L.)Methods: The ability to scavenge free radicals of the different extracts of syzygium cumini was determined by using 1,1-diphenyl2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), reducing power, hydroxyl radical scavenging assay, superoxide radical scavenging, Total flavonoid assay and Total phenolic assay. Another aspect of the study was to evaluate the phytochemicals of the different parts of the plant, keeping in view its pharmacological potential. The quantitative determination of compounds viz., phenolics and flavonoids supposed to be antioxidants was made and overall antioxidant activity was measured using standard methods.Results: The results demonstrate that the total phenolic and flavonoid content of syzygium cumini seed is greater than the content found in leaves and bark extracts. A linear correlation between total phenolic content and antioxidant activity has been reported. The results suggested that the phenolic compounds contribute effectively to the antioxidant activity. The highest antioxidant property of bark is noteworthy as compared to leaves and seed in the present study.Conclusion: The study suggests that syzygium cumini have a better source of natural antioxidants, which might be helpful in preventing the progress of oxidative stress