Seasonal variation of gastroprotective terpenoids in Maytenus robusta (Celastraceae) quantified by gas chromatography-flame ionization detection (GC-FID)

Abstract

The triterpenes friedelin (1), β-friedelinol (2) and 3,15-dioxo-21α-hydroxyfriedelane (3) in the aerial parts of Maytenus robusta, a Brazilian medicinal plant with antiulcer potential, were seasonally quantified by gas chromatography flame-ionization detection (GC-FID) using an external standard. The method was found to be linear, precise and sensitive. Compounds 1 and 2 were found in M. robusta leaves and branches, with highest concentrations in the leaves collected in autumn, i.e. 3.21 ± 0.16 and 12.60 ± 1.49 mg g-1 dry weight of 1 and 2, respectively. On the other hand, compound 3 was found only in the branches, with the highest concentrations in winter and autumn (0.21 ± 0.01 and 0.20 ± 0.02 mg g-1). The results allow to define the optimal season and plant parts for the collection of M. robusta as a phytotherapeutic drug.

Techniques for the analysis of pentacyclic triterpenoids in medicinal plants

“…GC combined with a flame ionization detector is the most common method for measuring pentacyclic triterpenoids. Zermiani et al developed the method to determinate friedelin, β-friedelinol, and 3,15-dioxo-21α-hydroxyfriedelane in the aerial parts of Maytenus robusta, a Brazilian medicinal plant with potential anti-ulcer properties, which was found to be precise and sensitive [76]. In recent years, GC-MS [39] detectors have been extensively used to measure complex compounds because of their high selectivity and sensitivity in quantitation.…”