Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Efficacy of Djulis (Chenopodium formosanum) Leaves: Implications for Sustainable Cosmeceutical Development

<i>Chenopodium formosanum</i> (djulis), well known for its vivid color variation during diverse senescence stages, has attracted attention for its perceived health benefits and antioxidant capacity. Djulis leaves, often discarded as biowaste after harvesting, were evaluated for their potential as a source of antioxidant compounds. The current study analyzes the physicochemical and antioxidant activities of red, green, and yellow djulis leaf extracts across various senescence stages to probe their prospective utility in cosmeceuticals. Various plant compounds including total carbohydrates, phenolics and flavonoids, chlorophyll a and b, and betaxanthins and betacyanins were measured using spectrophotometric techniques. Antioxidant potential was assessed using DPPH, FRAP, CUPRAC, TEAC, and DMPD assays. Green djulis leaves displayed elevated total carbohydrate and chlorophyll levels, whereas red djulis leaves exhibited heightened phenolic, flavonoid, betaxanthin, and betacyanin content, indicating its suitability for cosmeceutical applications. Antioxidant evaluations revealed substantial disparities among the extracts, with red djulis leaf extract demonstrating superior antioxidant activity in most assays. These findings revealed the distinct antioxidant profiles of djulis leaf extracts influenced by color and senescence stage. These findings advance our understanding of the bioactive attributes of djulis leaves and their potential for incorporation into functional products.