Variability of phenolic and alkaloid content in different plant parts of Carissa edulis Vahl and Zanthoxylum chalybeum Engl.
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Date
2018
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
BMC research notes
Abstract
The objective of the study was to investigate the relative abundance and effect of post-harvest treatment
on total phenolics (TP) and total alkaloids in the leaves and bark of Carissa edulis and Zanthoxylum chalybeum, which
would give an indication of the suitability of leaves as alternative sources of medicine in these plant species.
Results: Results indicated higher levels of total phenolics than total alkaloids in both of the species under both freezing
and air drying conditions. While more alkaloids were found in leaves compared to bark, there was no difference
in abundance of phenols between the plant parts of both species. Air drying preserved more TPs than freezing and
the opposite was true for alkaloids. For sustainability, leaves are recommended as an alternative source of medicine
instead of the preferred root or stem bark. However, the choice of whether to dry or freeze will depend on the specific
compound of interest. Assessment of spatial variability of medicinal properties is highly recommended.
Description
Keywords
Phenols, Alkaloids, C. edulis, Z. chalybeum
Citation
Nantongo, J. S., Odoi, J. B., Abigaba, G., & Gwali, S. (2018). Variability of phenolic and alkaloid content in different plant parts of Carissa edulis Vahl and Zanthoxylum chalybeum Engl. BMC research notes, 11(1), 1-5. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13104-018-3238-4