Comparison of total phenolic compounds of different Levisticum officinale L. parts

Introduction According to the literature, about 25% of drugs are developed using compounds extracted from medicinal plants, while about 80% of the world‘s population uses only plant–based medicines to treat or prevent disease [1]. In order to prevent urinary tract infections, it is recommended to ensure adequate fluid intake daily and use phytopreparations – plant–based medicines known for their antibacterial properties. In medicine, Levisticum officinale L. is widely use to treat various diseases, including urological disordes due to its stimulant, diuretic and antispasmodic effects [2]. It is important to quantify the biologically active compounds in medicinal plants to ensure the quality, pharmacological effects, and safety of medicinal plant materials. Aim Study aim - to evaluate and compare the total content of phenolic compounds in flowers, leaves, roots and stems samples of Levisticum offcinale L. Methods The flowers, leaves, roots and stems of Levisticum officinale L. were collected in different regions of Lithuania between June and July 2023. Quantitative analysis of phenolic compounds was performed using the spectrophotometric method with Folin – Ciocalteu reagent, and results were expressed as gallic acid equivalent (GRE mg/g). Results The total phenolic compounds content of Levisticum officinale L. samples ranged from 2,04 ± 0,07 GRE mg/g to 93,48 ± 0,48 GRE mg/g. The highest (p<0,05) total phenolic compounds content was found in flower samples of Levisticum officinale L. A significant variation of total phenolic compounds was obtained when comparing total phenolic compounds between flowers, leaves, roots and stems samples of Levisticum officinale L. On average, leaf samples contained 1,80 time fewer and root samples 4,83 times fewer phenolic compounds than flower samples. The lowest (p<0,05) total phenolic compounds content was detected in the stem samples of Levisticum officinale L. Compared to the flower samples, the total phenolic compounds content of stem samples, were on average 9,77 times fewer. In the whole study, the Levisticum officinale L. samples collected in Moletai stood out, showing the highest (p<0,05) total phenolic compounds content compared to other locations. In contrast, samples of Plunge site had the lowest (p<0,05) total phenolic compounds content. Conclusions Based on the total phenolic compounds content, flowers of Levisticum officinale L. can be considered the main site for the accumulation of these compounds, wile Moletai stands out as the most suitable location for the rational cultivation and collection of Levisticum officinale L.