Natural antioxidant properties of selected wild Mangifera species in Malaysia

Mirfat, A.H.S.,  Salma, I. and Razali, M.

Abstract

Many wild fruit species found in Malaysia are not well known and are underutilised. Information on their health benefits is critical in efforts to promote these fruits. This study was conducted to evaluate the antioxidant potential of seven species of wild Mangifera (mango) in Malaysia: M. caesia (binjai), M. foetida (bacang), M. pajang (bambangan), M. laurina (mempelam air), M. pentandra (mempelam bemban), M. odorata (kuini) and M. longipetiolata (sepam). The results were compared to those obtained from a popular mango, M. indica. Among the mangoes, M. caesia was found to be the most potential source of antioxidant as evidenced by its potent radica scavenging activity (92.09 ± 0.62%), ferric reducing ability (0.66 ± 0.11 mm) and total flavonoid content (550.67 ± 19.78 mg/100 g). Meanwhile, M. pajang showed the highest total phenolic (7055.65 ± 101.89 mg/100 g) and ascorbic acid content (403.21 ± 46.83 mg/100 g). In general, from the results obtained, some of the wild mango relatives were found to have strong antioxidant potential that is beneficial to health. This study provides a better understanding of the nutraceutical and functional potential of underutilised Mangifera species. The information is very useful for genetic enhancement of the Mangifera species in the future and justified the need of its conservation.

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