PHYTOCHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION AND EVALUATION OF ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY IN INFLORESCENCES OF BANANA TREES (Musa spp.)
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Abstract
This study aimed to characterize the phytochemical profile and evaluate the antioxidant activity of banana (Musa spp.) inflorescences. Extraction was performed by hydroalcoholic maceration, followed by qualitative phytochemical analysis, thin-layer chromatography (TLC) profile, and assessment of antioxidant activity using the Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) method. Qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of steroids/triterpenes, flavonoids, and other bioactive compounds in the extracts. TLC chromatographic profiles showed distinct compound patterns among the banana varieties studied. The FRAP assay demonstrated significant antioxidant activity in all extracts, with dose-dependent responses. The study suggests that banana inflorescences are a potential source of bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties, highlighting their potential for therapeutic and nutritional applications.