COMPARATIVE STUDY OF PHENOLIC COMPOUNDS AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY IN AROMATIC PLANTS

Abstract

This article aimed to compare the phenolic compound content and antioxidant activity of extracts from three aromatic plant species: rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus), and basil (Ocimum basilicum). Phytochemical analyses were performed to quantify gallic acid, rutin, and total flavonoids, along with antioxidant activity assessment using the DPPH method. All extracts showed a high percentage of free radical inhibition, indicating relevant antioxidant potential. Rosemary stood out for its higher phenolic content, while lemongrass exhibited similar antioxidant performance despite lower phenolic levels, suggesting the contribution of other non-phenolic bioactive compounds. Basil showed intermediate results, consistent with the phytochemical variability reported in the literature. These findings highlight the relevance of these species as natural sources of antioxidants and their potential application in pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic products.