Carotenoid content, phytochemical screening, and antioxidant potential of Kantutay (Lantana camara L.), Katuray (Sesbania grandiflora L.), and Blue Ternate (Clitoria ternatea L.) flowers in the Philippines

Abstract

Natural product chemistry plays a pivotal role in drug discovery and development. This study investigated the phytochemical profiles and antioxidant capacities of three prominent Philippine plants: Blue ternate (Clitoria ternatea), Kantutay (Lantana camara), and Katuray (Sesbania grandiflora). The primary aim is to provide a comprehensive assessment of their bioactive constituents and evaluate their potential for pharmacological applications. Phytochemical screening identified a diverse array of compounds, including flavonoids, tannins, glycosides, terpenoids, and other major chemical constituent classes, highlighting their therapeutic potential. The pigment analysis revealed substantial variations, with Blue ternate exhibiting the highest concentration, suggesting it as a promising source of carotenoids. Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) and chlorophyll analysis further revealed distinct compound profiles. Total Phenolic Content (TPC) analysis and the DPPH radical scavenging method marked Blue ternate to have the highest phenolic content and the most potent antioxidant activity among the plant samples. These findings collectively emphasize the significant therapeutic potential of these plants, warranting further exploration for pharmaceutical development.