Firstly, the total phenolic and flavonoid content was established by an analysis of both extracts using capillary GC-MS and 1H, 13C NMR spectroscopy after fractionation via column chromatography. Secondly, a screening for the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of the compounds identified was performed via 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging, as well as ferric-ion reducing power (FRAP) assays. Subsequently, the antibacterial activity of the compounds extracted was determined via disc-diffusion against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
It was found that the ethyl acetate extract of Algerian A. unedo L. roots was characterized by higher concentrations of phenolic acids, which also has about 2-3 times better radical scavenger properties than the reference antioxidant used, ascorbic acid. In addition, this extract showed the best antibacterial activity obtained in this study against both Gram-positive bacteria as well as Gram negative bacteria, with minimal inhibition dosage values as low as 25 Ag/disc.
To conclude both the antioxidant and the antibacterial properties of the extracts of Algerian A. unedo L. roots could hence be of practical value.