Effect of Season on UV Absorbing Property of Syzygium cumini L. Leaves

Abstract

Syzygium cumini Linn. is known to possess a wide range of medicinal properties including UV absorbing property. In the present study we have examined effect of season on UV absorbing property of S. cumini L. leaves. S. cumini L. leaves were collected in summer, winter, autumn and rainy seasons. Acetone extracts of the leaves were separately prepared. Extracts were used to get absorption spectra by scanning in the wavelength range 200 nm-400 nm at 10 nm intervals. Amounts of polyphenols in the leave extracts were also checked to note correlation, if any, between poly phenol content and UV absorbing property of S. cumini L. leaves. Results showed that acetone extract of the leaves of rainy season had maximum UV absorbing property. Polyphenol content of the leaves was also high during rainy season. Acetone extract of S. cumini L. leaves of rainy season may be used as anti solar agent in preparation of sun screen lotions.