PHARMACOGNOSTIC SCREENING AND EVALUATION OF ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF LUDWIGIA ADSCENDENS, LAUNAEA PINNATIFIDA, AND CARICA PAPAYA

Background: Ludwigia adscendens, Launaea pinnatifida, and Carica papaya are traditionally used plants with reputed antioxidant properties. This study aims to conduct pharmacognostic profiling and evaluate their antioxidant activity. Methods: Macroscopic and microscopic characteristics were documented. Powdered plant parts were subjected to phytochemical screening. Crude extracts prepared via ethanolic extraction were analyzed using DPPH radical scavenging, ABTS assay, and total phenolic content (Folin–Ciocalteu method). Results: Distinct diagnostic traits were recorded. Phytochemical tests indicated presence of flavonoids, phenolics, tannins, and saponins. In DPPH and ABTS assays, Carica papaya showed the strongest antioxidant activity, followed by Ludwigia adscendens and Launaea pinnatifida. Total phenolic content correlated positively with antioxidant capacity. Conclusion: All three species exhibit significant pharmacognostic markers and antioxidant potential, with Carica papaya being most potent. These plants warrant further exploration as sources of natural antioxidants.