Abstract

The study focuses on the comparative evaluation of extraction methods (ultrasonication and agitation) based on phenolic composition and antioxidative activities of Mammillaria prolifera and it is the first report on this subject. The effects of extraction conditions of temperature (25° and 60°), time (15, 30 and 60 min) and solvent type (water and 70 % and 100 % methanol) on total phenolic compounds, 2,2'-azinobis( 3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl anti-radical activities and ferric ion reducing antioxidant power values were determined. Moreover, the phenolic acid compositions of the extracts were investigated by high performance liquid chromatography. The extracts prepared with the ultrasonic method showed stronger antioxidant activity than those prepared with agitation methods. In both methods total phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity values were the lowest in the aqueous extracts. The results showed a positive correlation observed between total phenolic compounds and antioxidant activities of the studied extracts. The optimal conditions for the extraction of phenolic compounds from Mammillaria prolifera were found as 60 min extraction time, 60° extraction temperature and 70 % methanol concentration by using the ultrasonication method. Notably, protocatechualdehyde, gallic acid, para hydroxy benzoic acid and ferulic acid were identified in Mammillaria prolifera by using the high performance liquid chromatography-diode array detector system and 14 phenolic standards. Consequently, Mammillaria prolifera cladodes can be used in food or pharmaceutical practices, as a potential natural source of antioxidants.