Phytochemicals, proximate composition, and antioxidant properties of selected underutilized fruits in Sri Lanka

This research focused on the phytochemical and proximate analysis, as well as the antioxidant properties of 10 underutilized fruit species found in Sri Lanka. The study qualitatively tested the presence of phytochemicals; specifically polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, and saponins, in various fruit extracts using methanol, water, and acetone as solvents. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents were quantified using the Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum chloride methods, respectively. Antioxidant activity was evaluated through 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azinobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assays. Additionally, the fruits were analyzed for vitamin C, fat, protein, carbohydrate, moisture, and ash content. The results indicated that the total phenolic and flavonoid contents, as well as antioxidant activities, varied based on the extraction solvent used, with acetone proving to be the most effective for extracting these compounds. Phoenix pussilla and Syzygium caryophyllatum exhibited the highest levels of total phenolics, flavonoids, and ascorbic acid. Moreover, P. pussilla, Antidesma ghaesembilla, Antidesma alexiteria, and S. caryophyllatum demonstrated significant antioxidant properties. The findings of this research highlight the potential of the 10 selected underutilized fruits and suggest enhancing their commercial value while supporting biodiversity conservation strategies.