Elaeagnus angustifolia L. Fruits as a Source of Bioactive Phenolic Compounds: Pharmacognostic and Nutraceutical Implications

Background: The phytochemical profile of E. angustifolia comprises secondary metabolites belonging to several chemical classes. Phenolic compounds represent one of the most extensively investigated groups, being considered essential contributors to the pharmacognostic value of medicinal plants due to the diversity of their biological activities. Aims: The present study aimed to evaluate the phenolic composition of aqueous extracts obtained from Elaeagnus angustifolia fruits and to investigate the influence of extraction temperature on the distribution and stability of bioactive compounds. Study Design: This study represents an experimental phytochemical investigation focused on the effect of thermal extraction parameters. The study was carried out in a laboratory setting using plant material collected from the Romanian geographical area. Methodology: Aqueous extracts of Elaeagnus angustifolia fruits were prepared under three thermal conditions: cold extraction, 50°C, and 80°C. The phenolic profile was analyzed, focusing on phenolic acids and flavonoids, in order to evaluate the effect of temperature on compound extractability and stability. Results: The analysis revealed the presence of representative phenolic acids and flavonoids in all extracts. Significant variations were observed depending on extraction temperature. Higher temperatures led to increased concentrations of sinapic acid and gallic acid, while epicatechin content decreased under intense thermal conditions, indicating differences in thermal stability among phenolic compounds. Conclusion: The results support the pharmacognostic value of Elaeagnus angustifolia fruits as a source of bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. The findings highlight the importance of optimizing extraction parameters to obtain standardized extracts suitable for nutraceutical, phytotherapeutic, and dermato-cosmetic applications, and emphasize the potential of Romanian plant resources.