Estimation of Physicochemical Properties and Antioxidant Activity of Root Extract of Physalis minima

Abstract

Background: Physalis minima is used in a variety of ailments. Although, there have been a few studies on the leaves and fruits of the Physalis minima, there have been relatively few investigations on the roots.

Objectives: The objective of the present study is to investigate the physicochemical parameters, trace elements, FTIR, and antioxidant activity of Physalis minima root extracts.

Methodology: Standard procedures were used to conduct these studies on n-Hexane, chloroform, and methanolic extracts of roots. The antioxidant activity was performed by standard procedures as DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), phosphomolybdenum method, FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power assay), and hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity.

Results: Phytochemical analysis showed moisture content as 4.93±0.98%, total ash 10.09±0.76%, sulfated ash 4.92±0.91%, acid insoluble ash 4.3±0.88%, water-soluble extractive value 4.60 ± 0.01%, and alcohol soluble extractive value 17.92 ± 0.01%. FTIR analysis showed the presence of alkyl, amino, and tertiary alcohol groups. Percentage scavenging activity was measured by DPPH method and it was found that methanol extract showed maximum 93.525±0.276% scavenging activity as compared to chloroform 60.248±0.847%, and n-hexane 50.0±0.547%. Phosphomolybdenum assay showed maximum potential 86.81± 0.521% in the methanolic extract, 60.07±0.645% in chloroform extract, and 49.33±0.841% in n-hexane extract. FRAP showed maximum reducing value for methanol extract 86.153±0.203%, in chloroform 47.180±0.352%, and n-hexane extract 30.26±0.703%. By hydrogen peroxide assay, methanol extract possesses a maximum percentage of inhibition 91.71±0.992%, chloroform extract 60.64±0.721%, and for n-hexane was 51.32±1.664%.

Conclusion: Physalis minima root extract can be utilized to treat a variety of ailments and malignancies.