Free radical scavenging potential, reducing power, phenolic and biochemical constituents of Porphyra species from India

Abstract

Inorganic elements, organic composition and antioxidant properties of Porphyra indica and P. veiatnamensis, were investigated. Heavy metals were found below toxic level, protein and ash contents were found to be the most abundant components. Antioxidant potentials of algae were assessed through phenolic content, 2, 2-diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) activity, hydrogen peroxide (H sub(2)O sub(2)), scavenging power and reducing potential. A dose-dependent free radical scavenging action against DPPH and H sub(2)O sub(2), and concentration dependent reducing potential were exhibited by the Porphyra spp. Overall data suggested, these species could be rich source of natural antioxidants as well as stuff of high nutritional values.