Abstract
Introduction: Species of the genus Polyscias (Araliaceae) have long been used in traditional medicine because of their anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. However, information on the phytochemical composition, antioxidant activity, and nutritional value of several Polyscias species remains limited. This study investigated the phytochemical profiles, antioxidant potential, and nutritional composition of extracts from five Polyscias species: P. fruticosa, P. filicifolia, P. serrata, P. balfouriana, and P. ilicifolia.
Methods: Phytochemical screening and quantitative analyses were performed to determine total phenolic and flavonoid contents. Antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH, ABTS, and ferric-reducing assays. Nutritional composition, including moisture, protein, lipid, carbohydrate, and energy content, was also analyzed. The protective effects of P. fruticosa extract against oxidative stress induced by paraquat and hydrogen peroxide were evaluated in Drosophila melanogaster.
Results: P. fruticosa contained the highest levels of phenolics and flavonoids and exhibited stronger antioxidant capacity in the ABTS and ferric-reducing assays than the other tested species. In vivo experiments showed that P. fruticosa extract improved the survival and lifespan of D. melanogaster under oxidative stress conditions. Nutritional analysis indicated that P. balfouriana had the highest energy content (74.99±1.56 kcal), whereas P. ilicifolia showed the highest protein content (4.25%).
Conclusion: The findings demonstrate the therapeutic and nutritional potential of Polyscias species, particularly P. fruticosa, as promising natural sources for functional food and nutraceutical applications.