Ilochi Nwabunwanne Ogadinma and Arthur Nwafor Chuemere

Justicia secunda is a plant with diverse range of applications in African traditional medicine. Its therapeutic tendency in anemia is rooted in native traditions. Further scientific research is warranted to validate the efficacy of J. secunda as a valuable resource for alternative and complementary medicine. The present study evaluated the total phenolic, total flavonoid content and In-vitro antioxidant activity of J. secunda leaves ethanol extract. The extraction was performed by cold maceration method. 100 g (0.1 kg) of the powdered leaf of J. secunda was weighed and macerated in 500 mL of 95% ethanol for 48 hours. The mixture was agitated each day at regular intervals to ensure homogenous extraction at room temperature. Total phenolic and flavonoid content assay were performed using standard protocols. The extract was screened for antioxidant activity with ascorbic acid as reference standard. The extract showed the presence of phenolic and flavonoid contents. The extract also showed In vitro antioxidant activity with DPPH model having IC₅₀ values of 1.105 µg/mL (ethanol extract) and 1.634 µg/mL (ascorbic acid) and the TAC model having IC₅₀ values of 1.103 µg/mL (ethanol extract) and 1.634 µg/mL (ascorbic acid). The research demonstrates that the ethanol extract of J. secunda leaves possess significant antioxidant activity due to its ability to scavenge free radicals and inhibit oxidative processes. In conclusion, the ethanol extract of J. secunda leaves represents a rich source of phenolic and flavonoid compounds with notable antioxidant potential. These findings support its therapeutic potential and encourage further research into its specific bioactive components and broader pharmaceutical applications.

DOI: 10.22271/phyto.2024.v13.i5a.15053

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