Phenolic screening by HPLC–DAD–ESI/MSn and antioxidant capacity of leaves, flowers and berries of Rubus grandifoliusLowe

Sandra C. Gouveia-Figueira, Paula C. Castilho

Abstract

In Madeira Island (Macaronesia Island), Rubus grandifolius Lowe berries, locally known byamoras, are widely consumed fresh or processed as jam, juice or liquor. Folk medicine describes R. grandifolius Lowe fruits and leaves being used to treat diabetes, as depurative, diuretic and to relieve sore throat.

The aim of this study was to investigate phenolic composition and antioxidant capacity of the different edible parts of the plant (berries, leaves and flowers). HPLC–DAD–ESI/MSnwas used to establish the phenolic profile. Phenolic monomers such as flavonol O-glycosilated (quercetin and kaempferol), quinic acid and caffeic acid conjugates were characterized using the electrospray source in the negative mode; while positive mode was employed to detect glycosylated anthocyanins (cyanidin, delphinin and petunidin).

 The following chemicals were purchased from Chengdo Biopurify Phytochemicals, Ltd., China (Sichuan, China). 1,3-O-Dicaffeoylquinic ...