Exploring the photochemical composition of indigenous Capparis Genus species in Iraq

Abstract

This study presents a comparative analysis of the phytochemical compositions of the flowers and fruits of Capparis spinosa L. (Flora Iraq) sourced from Basra, southern Iraq. Soxhlet extraction and maceration methods were employed to prepare extracts for comparative phytochemical yield assessment. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were quantified using standard controls via spectroscopic analysis. Additionally, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) facilitated the identification and quantification of specific antioxidants, including cinnamic acid. Comparative analysis revealed significantly higher levels of phenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids in the flowers of C. spinosa compared to the fruits. HPLC profiling highlighted the presence of essential bioactive compounds such as kaempferol, quercetin, hexaoxane, vitamin E, and stigmasterol in both flower and fruit extracts. This study marks the first comprehensive report on HPLC profiles and quantification of prominent phytochemicals in C. spinosa (Flora Iraq) flowers and fruits from Basra, Iraq. The findings provide fundamental insights into the phytochemical compositions, serving as a valuable resource for future pharmacological research and the quality control of C. spinosa materials from this specific region.