Plant Science Research, Vol. 45, 2023

Growth stages modulate phytochemical content and antioxidant property in methanolic extract of Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek leaves.

Plant phytochemicals have extensive applications in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek (mung bean) seeds and sprouts are consumed by humans as functional foods worldwide. In this study, we analyzed the phytochemical constituents of Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek leaves by qualitative and quantitative methods at three different developmental stages. Phytochemical analysis of these three stages, i.e., young (7 days), mature (20 days), and old (35 days), showed variability in the amount of phytochemicals and antioxidative properties indicating that phytochemical composition and production alters with the growing stages of plants. Qualitative analysis of phytochemicals showed a higher content of metabolites in younger leaves than in mature and old leaves, except for alkaloids, which were found to be higher in mature leaves. Similarly, the quantified value of phytochemicals also matched the qualitative estimation. Furthermore, the antioxidant potential of young, mature and old leaves was also evaluated and found to vary with leaf age. Such studies can provide information on suitable plant stage for consumption or efficient production and extraction of phytochemicals for medicinal and commercial applications.