Phytochemical and Antioxidant Profile of the Ethanol Extracts of Phyllanthus niruri and Bergenia ligulata

Abstract

Cells produce free radicals that act as signaling molecules but also cause cellular damage, leading to oxidative stress and disease progression. Endogenous antioxidants offer protection, yet their limited levels are often inadequate against reactive oxygen species (ROS). In contrast, natural antioxidants provide more effective defense with better biocompatibility and fewer side effects than synthetic ones. Among medicinal plants, Phyllanthus niruri (PN) and Bergenia ligulata (BL) are traditionally valued for their therapeutic properties in managing diverse health disorders. The present study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition and antioxidant capacity of ethanolic extracts derived from PN leaves and BL rhizomes. Extracts were prepared by Soxhlet extraction method, and subsequently analyzed for total phenolic and flavonoid contents, along with antioxidant activity. Quantitative phytochemical analysis revealed that PN and BL extracts contained substantial phenolic contents (290 ± 0.03 mg GAE/g and 240 ± 0.04 mg GAE/g, respectively) and flavonoid contents (56.09 ± 0.48 mg RUT/g and 58.80 ± 0.84 mg RUT/g, respectively). Antioxidant assays demonstrated marked activity, with PN and BL exhibiting ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) values of 65.96 ± 0.48% and 62.04 ± 0.07%, respectively, and DPPH radical scavenging activities of 71.57 ± 0.06% and 75.60 ± 0.50%, respectively. No significant differences (P < 0.05) were observed between the antioxidant activities of both extracts and that of ascorbic acid (77.49 ± 0.13% for DPPH and 64.35 ± 0.07% for FRAP). These findings strongly support the potential application of PN leaves and BL rhizomes in mitigating oxidative stress-related disorders.