Determination of total phenols and antioxidant activity of Brosimum gaudichaudii

Abstract

Vitiligo is a disease of an autoimmune nature, characterized by depigmentation of the skin, caused by loss of melanocytes. It is known that the cellular sensitivity to oxidative stress has attributions determinants of melanocyte degradation. Aiming to reduce side effects and optimize treatment, alternative therapies have been incorporated, such as the use of medicinal plants. The research undertaken, propose to perform the analysis of the total phenol content and antioxidant activities of the species Brosimum gaudichaudii, drawing a parallel in its efficiency in the treatment in oxidative stress. The analysis of total phenols was performed by the Folin-Ciocalteau method and the evaluation of the antioxidant activity through monitoring of free radical DPPH consumption. The research showed that the concentration of phenolic compounds and the curve of antioxidant activity of the analyzed species has considerable value based on the analyzes of the same species, however inferior when compared with other genera, demonstrating that the species has an important action against the oxidative processes that they trigger vitiligo, and may be an important ally in their treatment.