IN-VITRO ASSESSMENT OF TOTAL PHENOLIC AND FLAVONOID CONTENT OF IXORA POLYANTHA WIGHT.

Abstract

The determination of total phenolic and flavonoid content in Ixora polyantha Wight is crucial for assessing its pharmacological potential. The ethanolic extract exhibited a high phenolic content of 113.5 µg/ml, indicating the plant's capacity as a significant source of natural antioxidants that neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative cellular damage. This finding aligns with the plant’s traditional uses in treating inflammation, wounds, and oxidative stress-related disorders, supported by a strong correlation (R² = 0.9977) confirming the reliability of the Folin-Ciocalteu method for quantification. Additionally, the extract displayed a moderate flavonoid content of 56.6 µg/ml, further supporting its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. The high correlation coefficient (R² = 0.9996) from the Aluminum Chloride Colorimetric method validates the accuracy of these measurements, essential for standardizing herbal formulations. Collectively, the identified phenolic and flavonoid contents position Ixora polyantha as a promising medicinal plant, suggesting potential applications in managing oxidative stress, inflammatory diseases, and infections. Further studies are necessary to isolate and characterize specific bioactive compounds, enhancing the development of standardized herbal formulations for clinical use. These findings underscore the plant's significance in traditional medicine and its promise for modern therapeutic applications.