Phytochemical Analysis, Antifungal and Antioxidant Activity of Leaf and Fruit of Zizyphus xylopyrus (Retz.) Willd. (Rhamnaceae)

Abstract

In the present study, phytochemical screening, content of total phenolics, antifungal and antioxidant activity of leaf and fruit extract of Zizyphus xylopyrus (Retz.) Willd. (Rhamnaceae) was investigated in vitro. The leaf and fruit extracts were obtained by maceration process using methanol as solvent. The extracts were screened for phytochemicals by standard tests. Flavonoids, saponins, terpenoids, tannins and phenols were found in both extracts. Antifungal activity of extracts was evaluated by poisoned food technique. Leaf extract suppressed the growth of test fungi to high extent when compared to fruit extract. Antioxidant activity was determined by DPPH radical scavenging, ABTS radical scavenging and Ferric reducing assays. Both extracts exhibited radical scavenging and ferric reducing activity in dose dependent manner with marked activity exhibited by leaf extract. Folin-Ciocalteau reagent method was employed to estimate total phenolic content of extracts. Phenolic content was slightly higher in leaf extract. A positive correlation was observed between phenolic content and antioxidant activity. The plant can be used against phytopathogenic fungi and to prevent and control oxidative damage. Further studies are to be carried out to isolate active principles from the plant and to determine their bioactivities.