Exploring antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibition in Eugenia L. extracts: a comprehensive phytochemical study

This study analysed extracts obtained from the leaves of Eugenia uniflora, E. involucrata, and E. myrcianthes to determine their chemical composition, antioxidative properties, and α-glucosidase inhibitory capacity. By using liquid chromatography with a diode array detector, we identified chlorogenic acids, flavonoids, tannins, proanthocyanidins, saponins, and triterpenes in the extracts. The antioxidant activities of the extracts were found to be directly related to their total phenolic, flavonoid content and enzyme inhibition. The E. uniflora aqueous extract showed significant inhibition of α-glucosidase (IC₅₀ 0.98 µg mL^-1), indicating its potential as a non-competitive inhibitor for managing Diabetes Mellitus. This study contributes to the existing knowledge on the chemical and biological aspects of Eugenia genus.