Mineral Profiles and Antioxidant Potentials of Polyherbal Formulation and Soursop Leaf Extracts: A Comparative Analysis

Abstract

This study investigated and compared the trace mineral profiles and antioxidant capacities of Polyherbal Ethanolic Extract (PHEE) and Soursop Leaf Ethanolic Extract (SLEE). Trace elements, including copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), and selenium (Se), were quantified using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry. Antioxidant properties were assessed using DPPH, FRAP, Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC), hydroxyl radical, and nitric oxide scavenging assays. Mineral analysis revealed higher concentrations of Cu, Mn, Fe, and Se in PHEE, while Zn was more abundant in SLEE. Both extracts exhibited significant antioxidant activities: SLEE showed stronger DPPH (IC₅₀ = 33.11 µg/mL), FRAP (IC₅₀ = 107.15 µg/mL), and nitric oxide scavenging (IC₅₀ = 54.95 µg/mL) capacities, whereas PHEE demonstrated superior TAC (IC₅₀ = 199.52 µg/mL) and hydroxyl radical scavenging activity (IC₅₀ = 53.70 µg/mL). These findings suggest that the antioxidant potentials of both extracts may be attributed to their phytochemical profiles and mineral contents, supporting their potential use in managing oxidative stress-related conditions.