Variability in phenolic composition of hypericum Androsaemum

Abstract

The methanolic extracts of fifteen Hypericum androsaemum samples, growing spontaneously or cultivated in Portugal, were analysed by HPLC/DAD, allowing the identification of 9 phenolic compounds and the detection of 6 phloroglucinols. Total amounts of phenolics found ranged from 11 to 39 g/kg, and the influence of some factors which may be responsible for this variation is discussed. The individual compounds were also quantified. Four different phenolic profiles were found concerning both qualitative and quantitative composition, indicating the possible existence of chemical polymorphism.

Protective activity of Hypericum androsaemum infusion against tert-butyl hydroperoxide-induced oxidative damage in isolated rat hepatocytes

“…Quantification was achieved by the absorbance recorded in the chromatograms relative to external standards, with detection at 350 nm, as previously reported (Valentão et al, 2003).…”

“…Infusion of Hypericum androsaemum leaves has been used in traditional medicine for its diuretic and anti-hepatotoxic activities (Costa, 1994). Phenolic compounds, such as flavonoids, phenolic acids and xanthones, are known to be present in this species (Schmidt et al, 2000;Valentão et al, 2003) and may contribute to its pharmacological effects. Recently, we reported the antioxidant activity of Hypericum androsaemum infusion, evidenced against superoxide radical, hydroxyl radical and hypochlorous acid (Valentão et al, 2002).…”

Hypericum androsaemum infusion increases tert-butyl hydroperoxide-induced mice hepatotoxicity in vivo

“…Leaves of Hypericum androsaemum have been employed in the preparation of an infusion used in folk medicine for its diuretic and hepatoprotective activities (Costa, 1994). Its chemical composition has been investigated and several phenolic compounds, such as flavonoids, phenolic acids and xanthones, are known to be present in this species (Schmidt et al, 2000;Valentão et al, 2003). The traditional therapeutic effects of this species can be attributed, at least partially, to the presence of these kind of compounds.…”

Leaf Phytognostic Characters of Six Species of Hypericum L. (Hypericaceae)

“…[22]. Reports on H. androsaemum phytochemistry and bioactivities are known [21; 23-24] and also on chemotaxonomy involving this and other Portuguese species [25] but little is known about their phytognostic characters. Maggi et al, [17] and Perrone et al [26] documented the morphology and histochemistry of Italian populations of H. androsaemum.…”