Antioxidant content and activity of stem and leaf extracts of Gouania longipetala Hemsl. (Rhamnaceae).

Background: Gouania longipetala Hemsl. is a scandent shrub used in traditional medicine for the management of different ailments such as gout, female infertility, heart diseases, diabetes, and malaria. Pathophysiology of the diseases is generally associated with oxidative stress. Antioxidant properties of G. longipetala have not yet been well elucidated.

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant content and antioxidant activity of methanol extracts from the plant's stems and leaves.

Materials and methods: Methanol extracts from the plant stems and leaves were screened for phytochemical components with antioxidant properties (Vitamin C, total phenolics, and flavonoids). The antioxidant reducing power of the extracts as well as its effects on lipid peroxidation and catalase were also evaluated in vitro using biochemical assays.

Results: Leaf extract was richer than stem extract in different antioxidants such as Vitamin C, phenolics, and flavonoids. Both leaf and stem extracts showed similar inhibitory effect on lipid peroxidation and stimulatory effect on catalase activity, while leaf extract had higher ferric antioxidant effect than stem extract.

Conclusion: Both extracts from G. Longipetala possessed antioxidant content, though activities with leaf extract displayed higher antioxidant properties than stem extract.