Antioxidant activity and total phenolic content of nine plants from Côte d’Ivoire (West Africa).

ABSTRACT

Plants are widely consumed in Africa and may contribute to improve the nutritional status and health of people. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant activity and total phenolic content of nine plants consumed in people’s diet. Out of 20 extracts tested (10 dichloromethane and 10 methanolic 80%), 18 (90%) exhibited ability to scavenge free radicals. High correlation has been established between antioxidant activity and total phenolic content of Psorospermum febrifugum, Myrianthus arboreus and Ceratotheca sesamoides. These plants could be potential rich sources of natural antioxidants and developed into functional food for nutrition and prevention of oxidative stress-related diseases.