Total phenolic compounds of Potentilla erecta (L.) Raeusch. in above-ground parts during vegetation period

Abstract

Background. Potentilla erecta (L.) Raeusch. (Rosaceae) is most common in the Northern hemisphere (especially in Scandinavia and Russia), in cold or temperate climates, arctic and Alpine zones [1,2]. The plant material is used for treating inflammation, wounds, certain types of cancer, infections caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses, diarrhoea, diabetes mellitus, and other conditions [2]. Phytochemical studies related P. erecta has led to the isolation and identification of tannins, ellagitannins, agrimoniin as the most active chemicals with biological effects [3]. High content of phenolics compounds, condensed and hydrolysable tannins serves as the basis for its beneficial effect [1]. Aim. The aim of the current study was to determine the amount of phenolic compounds of wild silverwort (P. erecta) grown in Lithuania. Methods. Aboveground parts of P. erecta collected from VU Šiauliai Academy Botanical Garden during the plant’s vegetation period of June–September. Extracts were prepared using 0.2 g of dry matter and 20 mL of 70% acetone. The total phenolic compounds were determined according to Folin–Ciocalteu method using a spectrophotometer. Results. In different vegetation periods the total phenolic content was in a range of 50.88±2.77 GAE mg/g to 92.42±0.12 GAE mg/g. The results have shown that the greatest amount of phenolic content was determined in August (92.42±0.12 GAE mg/g) during massive flowering period and the lowest was September (50.88±2.77) GAE mg/g at the end of vegetation. Conclusion. The total amount of phenolic compounds varies in different vegetation periods, so it is important to determine in which vegetation period the plant accumulates the highest amount of phenolic compounds, as this can ensure the best quality of the raw material and therapeutic potential. The greatest amount of phenolic compounds was determined in the plant material collected during flowering.