Phytochemical Screening and Antioxidant Properties of Essential Oil from Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) Peel.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70672/mkgbvg04Keywords:
DPPH assay, essential oil, grapefruit (Citrus paradisi), hydro-distillation, phytochemical screening.Abstract
Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi), a hybrid fruit from the Rutaceae family formed by crossing sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) and pomelo (Citrus maxima), is known for its antioxidant properties that help combat oxidative stress caused by free radicals. This study aimed to extract essential oil from grapefruit peel powder via hydro-distillation, analyze its proximate composition, perform phytochemical screening, and evaluate its antioxidant activity using the DPPH assay. The essential oil was extracted using a Clevenger apparatus at 100 °C for 3 hours, yielding a colourless oil with a sweet fragrance. Proximate analysis of the peel powder revealed 10% total ash, 5% acid-insoluble ash, 28% moisture loss, and 44% water extractives, reflecting its physicochemical quality and stability. Qualitative phytochemical screening revealed the presence of terpenoids, while alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, and phenols were not detected. However, quantitative analysis showed a total phenolic content (TPC) of 6.57 mg GAE/g and a total flavonoid content (TFC) of 179.10 mg QE/g, indicating the presence of antioxidant-related compounds. The DPPH radical scavenging assay showed a concentration-dependent increase in antioxidant capacity, with grapefruit peel essential oil achieving a maximum RSA of 22.21% at 200 mg/mL and an IC₅₀ value of 450.25 mg/mL, indicating moderate antioxidant potential compared to ascorbic acid. In conclusion, grapefruit peel essential oil contains bioactive compounds, particularly terpenoids, phenolics, and flavonoids, contributing to its antioxidant properties. Although its efficacy is lower than synthetic antioxidants like ascorbic acid, it represents a natural, safe alternative with potential applications in food preservation, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical formulations. Further research should explore strategies to enhance its antioxidant efficacy, such as synergistic combinations with other natural antioxidants.
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