Abstract:
Twelve Sri Lankan plant material based infusions extensively used in indigenous medicine and
traditional herbal beverages namely Sepalika (Nyctanthes arbor-tristis), Beli (Aegle marmelos),
Iramusu (Hamidesmus indicus), Ranawara (Cassia auriculata), Nelli (Phyllanthus emblica),
Rasakinda (Tinospora cordifolia), Polpala (Aerva lanata), Babila (Sida rhombifolia), Neeramulliya
(,Hygrophila schulli), Thippili (Piper longum) and Venivel (Coscinium fenestratum) were
investigated for their antioxidant potential by three assays; 2,2-diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl assay
(DPPH), 2,2-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) assay and Ferrous
reducing antioxidant power assay (FRAP). Total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid
content (TFC) were determined by using colorimetric assays. Traditional herbal beverages were
formulated by boiling dried plant materials with water (1:25 w/v). Results revealed that Nyctanthes
arbor-tristis infusion contained significantly (p<0.05) highest antioxidant potential as measured by
DPPH, ABTS and FRAP (TE mg/ mL) assay; 62.97±0.00, 39.59±0.50 and 201.09±8.88
respectively and Infusion of Phyllanthus emblica showed the second highest antioxidant potential
for above three assays as 60.55±0.03, 38.48±2.29and 181.55±6.49 (TE mg/ mL) respectively.
Nyctanthes arbor-tristis infusion contained the highest TPC (209.9±1.91 GAE mg/mL) whereas
Phyllanthus emblica infusion showed the highest TFC (37.5±0.38QE mg/mL). Moreover, positive
correlations (r > 0.6) were found between phenolic compounds, flavonoid and the antioxidant
potential by three assays. The results of the present study confirm the high potential of the
traditional herbal beverages as a healthy drink and the suitability to use as home remedies for
different ailments associated with potential natural antioxidants and phenolic compounds.
