Differential Biochemical Content and Free Radical Scavenging Potency of Three Solvent Extracts of Porodaedalea pini

Porodaedalea pini, a non-edible mushroom, is a notable source of bioactive compounds with traditional medicinal uses. Solvent selection is crucial in research and development of natural products. This study examined how solvent polarity affects the biochemical composition and antioxidant properties of P. pini. Crude extracts were prepared from whole mushrooms using chloroform, methanol, and ethyl acetate through cold extraction. Total carbohydrate, flavonoid, and phenolic contents were measured, and free-radical scavenging activities against DPPH and superoxide anion were assessed by employing standard protocols. Methanolic extracts yielded significantly more than ethyl acetate (p<0.05) and chloroform (p<0.001) extracts, showing higher levels of carbohydrates, proteins, flavonoids, and phenolics (p<0.001). All extracts displayed notable free-radical scavenging activity, with methanol being the most potent, followed by ethyl acetate and chloroform. Thus, solvent polarity greatly affects the biochemical constituents and antioxidant activity of P. pini extracts, highlighting the importance of solvent choice in optimising their bioactive potential.