The effect of solvent extracts on the measurement of total polyphenol, flavonoid and tannin contents and its relation to antioxidant capacities from various parts of Terebinth (Pistacia terebinthus L.)

Currently there is much interest to find new natural antioxidants, especially antioxidants of plant-based. In order to discover the group of polyphenols, which could be a potential new and reliable sources of natural antioxidants. The fruits, wigs and leaves of Terebinth (Pistacia terebinthus L.) were investigated for their phytochemical constituents, hydrolysable tannin contents, total polyphenol and flavonoid contents as well as antioxidant capacities. Twelve crude extracts were prepared from various parts of Terebinth using solvents of different polarity (water, ethanol, ethyl acetate, and hexane). The hydrolysable tannin content (HTC) gave in terms of tannic acid equivalent using the ammonium ferric citrate assay and total polyphenol and flavonoid contents (TPC and TFC) gave in terms of gallic equivalent using the Folin-Ciocalteu assay and in terms of catechin equivalent employing the aluminum chloride colorimetric method, respectively. Antioxidant capacities were carried by two different ways the TAC (phosphomolybdenum) and the DPPH. Screening tests revealed the existence of sterols, triterpenes, saponins, oses, holosides, tannins, flavonoids and reducing sugars. This study proved that the aqueous extract of Terebinth leaves is a wondrous natural antioxidant compared to standards (BHA and Quercetin). The results show a highly significant correlation between the HTC in relation to antioxidant capacities