Comprehensive Antioxidant Evaluation of Tiliacora triandra Extracts: Assays of Leaf, Stem, and Root

Abstract

This study evaluates the antioxidant potential of Tiliacora triandra (locally known as “Yanang”) extracts from the leaves, stems, and roots using three established assays: DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), ABTS (2,2'-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)), and FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power). The extracts were prepared using 95% ethanol, and their antioxidant activities were assessed in terms of IC50 and Trolox equivalents. The DPPH assay yielded IC50 values of 187.91±28.09 μg/ml, 85.93±10.91 μg/ml, and 71.31±11.29 μg/ml for the leaf, stem, and root extracts, respectively. Similarly, the ABTS assay showed IC50 values of 181.78±22.96 μg/ml for the leaf extract, 70.07±6.40 μg/ml for the stem extract, and 48.09±8.77 μg/ml for the root extract. In both assays, the root and stem extracts exhibited comparable antioxidant activity, whereas the leaf extract showed significantly lower activity (p < 0.05). The FRAP assay revealed no significant differences among the extracts, with Trolox equivalent values ranging from 190 to 211 mg TE/g extract. These findings suggest that the root and stem extracts possess strong antioxidant activity and may be used interchangeably in applications requiring such properties, whereas the leaf extract has comparatively lower potential. Further studies are recommended to explore the therapeutic properties and potential health benefits of these extracts.