Phytochemical characterization, antioxidant activity, and physicochemical properties of Peronema canescens -based Granule

Abstract Peronema canescens Jack leaves are among the herbs with the highest antioxidant activity. Innovative preparations that can extend shelf life and improve the use of P. canescens leaves as herbal medicine or as an alternative to bolster functional foods are highly needed. This study assesses the phytochemical content, antioxidant activity, and physicochemical properties of 70% ethanol extract (EE70) and P. canescens -based granules at various concentrations (F0, F1, F2, and F3). Total phenolics and flavonoids were quantified, antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH assay method, and physicochemical analysis was performed through FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared) spectroscopy and morphology analysis. The total phenol and flavonoid contents were highest in the EE70 sample, followed by the F3, F1, and F2 granule samples, which showed significant differences from the F0 granule preparation. Linear trends were also observed in the assessment of antioxidant activity. The EE70 sample demonstrated very strong antioxidant activity, with an IC 50 of 32.67 ± 0.19 mg/mL, while the F1, F2, and F3 granules exhibited strong antioxidant activity with IC 50 values of 60.29 ± 0.42, 61.04 ± 2.83, and 59.59 ± 1.51 mg/mL, respectively. Physicochemical analysis of the extract samples and all P. canescens -based granules revealed the presence of phenolic compounds and similar microstructural features across all P. canescens granules. This study shows that the extract and the three P. canescens -based granules contain phenolic and flavonoid compounds, exhibiting strong antioxidant activity, and thus represent promising candidates for functional food fortification.