In vitro antioxidant studies of Begonia malabarica Lam. and Begonia floccifera Bedd

ObjectiveTo evaluate the total phenolic, flavonoid contents and in vitro antioxidant activity of methanol extracts of Begonia malabarica Lam. and Begonia floccifera Bedd. whole plant.MethodsTotal phenolic content was estimated using the Folin Ciocalteu method. The flavonoid content was determined using aluminium chloride. In vitro antioxidant activities and reducing power capacity were determined using standard methods.ResultsThe total phenolics and flavonoids were estimated. The methanol extracts of whole plants of Begonia malabarica and Begonia floccifera showed potent in vitro antioxidant activities using various models viz, DPPH, hydroxyl, superoxide and ABTS radical scavenging activity.ConclusionsThe present study confirmed that methanol extracts have potential in vitro antioxidant activity. The phytochemical phenolics and flavonoids could be the reason for its antioxidant activity.