Phytochemical Screening and Antioxidant Activity of the Fruits of Boscia senegalensis (Pers.) Lam. e.g. Pear. (Capparaceae)

Objective: This study aims to assess the phytochemical composition and antioxidant activity of the fruits (pulp and seeds) of Boscia senegalensis from the Ferlo zone in Northern Senegal. Material and Methods: Fruit collection of Boscia senegalensis was carried out in three Ferlo’s localities: Tessékéré, Labgar and Ranérou. The sample consists of 36 individuals selected randomly from each locality. The major chemical groups were determined by conventional methods using specific general reagents. The determination of total polyphenols and total flavonoids, the 2,2-diphenyl-1picrylhydrazyl (DPPH.) radical scavenging activity and ferric reducing of antioxidant power (FRAP) were evaluated by spectrophotometry. Results and Discussion: The results of the photochemical screening revealed the presence of saponins, alkaloids, sterols and triterpenes, flavonoids and polyphenols in both parts of the fruit (pulp and seeds). Assays carried out on extracts of pulp and seed powders reveals higher levels of total polyphenols and flavonoids in the pulp. The study of antioxidant activity has shown that hydro-ethanol extracts of pulp and seeds have a very interesting reducing activity, particularly in the pulp. However, we can see a weak antiradical activity of these extracts. The origin effect has a weak influence on the antiradical and reducing activity of the pulp and seed extracts. Conclusions: The biological activity of the harvested Boscia senegalensis extracts highlighted in this study could justify the traditional uses of this plant in the treatment of several pathologies. This fruit should be consumed in order to prevent few dietary imbalances or valorized in order to develop new bioactive compounds.