Tropical Fruits
Xuan Phong Huynh; Ngoc Thanh Nguyen; Minh Chau Luu; Thi Ngoc Bich Bui; Hoang Dang Long Bui; Bach Long Tran; Thi Kim Ngan Tran
Abstract
Purpose: King orange (Citrus reticulata × sinensis) is a fruit spices native to tropical and subtropical regions that holds significant economic and nutritional value and is widely consumed in daily life. The primary chemical constituents of king orange include flavonoids (such as hesperidin and ...
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Purpose: King orange (Citrus reticulata × sinensis) is a fruit spices native to tropical and subtropical regions that holds significant economic and nutritional value and is widely consumed in daily life. The primary chemical constituents of king orange include flavonoids (such as hesperidin and naringin), organic acids, vitamin C, and phenolic compounds. Due to its unique biological properties, nutritional benefits, and divers pharmacological effects, king orange is not only a widely consumed fruit but also a promising ingredient for developing natural functional foods, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. This study investigated the distribution of bioactive compounds and the antioxidant capacity in different tissues of king orange cultivated in four provinces of the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Research Method: Physical characteristics of the fruit were analyzed, and phytochemical screening was performed identify secondary metabolites. Flavonoid and phenolic contents were quantified, and antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH assay. Findings: The fruits had thick, juicy flesh (42.4-51.2% w/w) and thin peel (27.2-35.2% w/w). Alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, and saponins were detected in both juice and peel extracts, while terpenoids were found only in the peel. The juice had the highest flavonoid and phenolic content, followed by flavedo and albedo extracts. Antioxidant activity was highest in the juice from "Can Tho" and in the peel extracts from "Vinh Long". Research limitations: No limitations were encountered. Originality/Value: Orange juice and peel are rich in bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties, highlighting their potential for health-promoting applications. Citrus reticulata is not only a widely consumed fruit but also a promising raw material for the development of natural functional food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic products.
Medicinal Plants
Thi Kim Ngan Tran; Hoang Thien Vu Nguyen; Thi Thu Ha Nguyen; Thi Cam Thai
Abstract
Purpose: Study on the effects of extraction methods on the biological activities of Centella asiatica, including antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Research Method: The main components of C.asiatica include triterpenoid saponins, polyphenols, flavonoids, and other health-beneficial compounds found ...
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Purpose: Study on the effects of extraction methods on the biological activities of Centella asiatica, including antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Research Method: The main components of C.asiatica include triterpenoid saponins, polyphenols, flavonoids, and other health-beneficial compounds found through phytochemical screening. Ethanol extraction is performed using three extraction methods: immersion extraction, ultrasonic extraction, and reflux. Centella asiatica extract was tested for polyphenol content, total flavonoids, total triterpenoid saponins, and the ability to scavenge the free radicals DPPH and ABTS. Findings: The reflux extraction method was more effective than the other extraction methods in extracting chemical components, yielding relatively higher polyphenol, total flavonoid, and total triterpenoid saponins contents. All three types of extracts have the ability to fight oxidation, protecting cells from harmful free radicals. The IC50 value of pennywort extract in DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging tests ranged from 455.52 and 270.05 µg/mL (soaked) < 333.63 and 206.56 µg/mL (ultrasound) < 239.75 and 199.75 µg/mL (reflux). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for the two bacterial strains Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli was less than 2.188 mg/mL in all three methods. Research limitations: No limitations were encountered. Originality/Value: The development of extraction processes and evaluation of high quality extracts from gotu kola requires a combination of traditional methods and modern technology such as the use of advanced chemical and biological analytical techniques. This may create opportunities for the development of new technologies in the field of herbal extraction.
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