Phytochemical Compositions and Antioxidant Activity of Papait (Mollugo oppositifoliaLinn.) As Source of Natural Tea

Abstract

Papait (Mollugo oppositifoliaLinn.) is one of the most important indigenous vegetables in Guimba, Nueva Ecija. This study was conducted to investigate the phytochemical components and antioxidant activity of M.oppositifoliaas a source of natural tea. Ethanolic extraction was carried out to obtain the bioactive chemical components. Its phytochemicals were screened using spot test in the TLC method whereas the antioxidant properties were determined using 2, 2diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay. Phytochemical screening revealed that M. oppositifolia plant contained essential oils, triterpenes, sterols, phenols, fatty acid, anthraquinones, coumarins, athrones, tannins, flavonoids and alkaloids. However, the three plant parts exhibited radical scavenging activities. The ethanolic extract of stem showed the highest scavenging activity of 27.42%, followed by the extract of the roots with 26.89%. The leaves extract had the lowest activity (10.32%). Based on these results, M. oppositifolia plant can be considered a nutraceutical vegetable, which can play an important role in product development such as safe, natural tea.