Evaluation of Unsaponified Petroleum Ether Extract of Lantana camara L. leaves for Antioxidant Activity and Oxidative Stability

Background: Lantana camara L. leaves have been traditionally claimed to be used in treatment of different illnesses. Leaves are rich in lower terpenes in the form of essential oil, however they also contain lipids like waxes. Both classes, lipids and terpenes are soluble in petroleum ether, but only lipids can be saponified, not terpenes. Aim: The present study was aimed towards preparation of unsaponified terpene-rich extract of L. camara L. leaves; its assessment for anti-oxidant activity and capacity to impart oxidative stability. Methods: In order to remove lipids and retain terpenes, in present study, petroleum ether extract of Lantana camara L. leaves was saponified using aqueous potassium hydroxide and unsaponified matter was standardized using β-caryophyllene as marker; screened for anti-oxidant activity, using DPPH radical scavenging model and estimated for its capacity to impart oxidative stability using Rancimat test. Results: Tested extract showed considerable antioxidant activity (IC50 value:13 μg/ml) and imparts 74.83% protection against oxidation as compared to standards used. Conclusion: Lipids can be removed by saponification and thereby, petroleum ether extract can be made rich in terpenes. This unsaponified petroleum ether extract of L. camara L. leaves shows better antioxidant results as compared to petroleum ether extract and comparable with standards used.