Characterization of the free radical scavenging activity of rose hip (Rosa canina L.) extract

Abstract

Rose hip is a rich source of naturally occurring antioxidants. Its activity is mainly attributed to compounds represented by vitamin C and polyphenols. Rose hip extract was fractionated using solid phase extraction. Free radical scavenging activities of rose hip extract fractions containing vitamin C (39.17 g/g dry rose hip), flavonoids (0.11 g/g dry rose hip), and phenolic acids (0.50 g/g dry rose hip) towards hydroxyl and superoxide anion radicals were evaluated using electron spin resonance spectroscopy. The presence of antioxidant derived free radical intermediates during reactions with superoxide anion radical was also observed. Very potent free radical scavenging activities of rose hip extract fractions, as well as good correlations with compositional data were revealed. © 2012 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.