Estimation of Total Phenolic and Total Flavonoid Contents, In-Vitro Antioxidant Activity and Median Inhibitory Concentration of Methanol Root Extract of Ximenia americana, L. Olacaceae

Background: This research was carried out to estimate the total phenolic and flavonoid contents, assayed the in-vitro antioxidant potential, and estimate the median inhibitory concentration (IC50) of the methanol root extract of Ximenia americana, Linn.

Study Design: It was an experimental study design.

Methods: Total phenolic and flavonoid contents of the extract were determined by spectrophotometry using Folin-Ciocalteu reagent and Aluminum chloride colorimetric assay, readings were taken at 750 nm, and 415 nm wavelength respectively. The results were expressed in terms of Gallic acid and Rutin standards equivalent. The in-vitro antioxidant activity and the IC50 of the plant material were investigated by its ability to scavenge free radicals, using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging method. Similarly, the total percentage yield of the extract was estimated from the crude.

Results: The crude root powder of Ximenia americana showed a total extract yield of 20.06%w/w. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were determined to be 3.501 ± 0.774 mg GAE/g, and 10.644 ± 0.20 mg RE/g extract. The extract displayed concentration-dependent DPPH free radical scavenging activity, with the highest concentration (200 µg/mL) inhibiting 60.93% of DPPH free radical, and the IC50 of the extract was determined to be 69.01 µg/mL.

Conclusions: Ximenia americana L methanol root extract has a yield of 20.06%w/w, and a total phenolic content of 3.501± 0.774 mg GAE/g, total flavonoids content of 10.644 ± 0.20 mg RE/g, and IC50 of 69.01 µg/mL, also, the extract possesses a potent antioxidant activity by its ability to inhibit DPPH activity.