Resumo

TAPIA-TORRES, Nery Alicia et al. Histochemistry, total phenolic content and antioxidant activity in leaf and wood of Litsea glaucescens Kunth (Lauraceae). Madera bosques [online]. 2014, vol.20, n.3, pp.125-137. ISSN 2448-7597.

Litsea glaucescens is widely distributed in Mexico, its main uses are focused on traditional medicine in the form of teas and medicinal baths to relieve gynecological and stomach disorders. This therapeutic property is attributed to the presence of phenolic compounds through the plant body. In the present study, histochemical techniques were used to locate the presence of phenolic compounds like lignin and tannins, as well as lipids and non-structural carbohydrates in sections of leaves and wood and, to quantify total phenolic content and antioxidant activity by means of scavenging DPPH and ABTS free radicals on leaves and wood aqueous (92 °C and 25 °C) and methanolic extracts. Histochemical results show that leaves and wood displayed a considerable amount of phenolic compounds, oils and non-structural carbohydrates. Chemical characterization of leaves aqueous extracts made up at 92 °C displayed higher total phenolic content than those made with methanol. In all cases, the total phenolics were higher in leaves than in wood samples. Sapwood methanolic extracts showed higher antioxidant activity than heartwood, regardless the quantification method used. In agreement with these results, it is possible to establish an interrelationship between the content and distribution of phenolics on vegetal tissues and its antioxidant activity with its potential use for therapeutic end-uses.

Palavras-chave : oil bodies; methanolic extracts functionality; wild laurel; mesophyll; secondary xylem.

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