2-2- DIPHENYL-1-PICRYLHYDRAZYL (DPPH) RADICAL SCAVENGING ACTIVITY

ABSTRACT

In west Africa, Picralima nitida is a widely used herbal treatment. The plant's entire body is bitter, and throughout its range of distribution, the seeds, bark, and roots are widely used to relieve pain and treat chest and stomach ailments, pneumonia, and intestinal worms in addition to having a reputation as a febrifuge and a malaria medicine. The aim of this study is to probe and validate the antioxidant properties of Picralima nitida and also test for the phytochemicals present and their toxicity level in order to minimize threat to health. 100 pieces of Picralima nitida were bought and peeled then cut into small pieces to aid quick drying process. The dried pulp and rind, each weighing 3.9kg and 1.2kg respectively were grinded into powder and soaked inside ethanol for 72 hours. Thereafter, extraction was done with the use of sieve. The filtrate was then freeze-dried and taken to the laboratory as sample needed for this project. The research was carried out to identify the DPPH(2-2-Diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging activity in P. nitida. By the end of the research, the result showed that Picralima nitida is rich in antioxidants which is beneficial in improving good health.