Quantitative Analysis Of Some Classes Of Bioactive Antioxidant Compounds In Fennel (Foeniculum Vulgare Mill.) Leaves

Abstract

Fennel leaves from local production were studied for their content in some classes of compounds with antioxidant potential. Chlorophylls (a and b), carotenoids (total, β-carotene, lycopene, lutein, zeaxanthin and cryptoxanthin), phenolic compounds (total, flavonoids, anthocyanins), ascorbic acid, essential oils.
The chlorophyll content was 1,459 mg/kg DW, of which over 86% chlorophyll a. Total carotenoid concentration was 1,609 mg/kg DW, including 1,002 mg/kg β-carotene, 109 mg/kg lycopene, 32 mg/kg lutein and low amounts of other compounds. 13,292 mg/kg was the total phenolic content, of which 686 mg/kg flavonoids, including 146 mg/kg anthocyanins. Leaves contained 2,658 mg/kg ascorbic acid and 20,553 mg/kg essential oil.
While comparable with other Apiaceae in most types of compounds, fennel had a lower flavonoid inventory, but a higher amount of lycopene.