Phytochemical composition and antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities of Juniperus macrocarpa Sibth. et Sm

Abstract

The phenolic and terpene profiles, as well as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities of extracts and essential oils of Juniperus macrocarpa species were studied. The content of 45 phenolics was determined using LC-MS/MS. Accordingly, significantly different compositions were found between leaves and seed cones extracts, while the dominant compounds were rutin, catechin, quercitrin, epicatechin and amentoflavone. GC-MS showed simple terpene composition, with monoterpenes being dominant and α-pinene as the most abundant compound. Extracts and essential oils of J. macrocarpa showed moderate antioxidant activity comparable to that of butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA). Seed cones showed significant anti-inflammatory activity, with high pro-inflammatory activity of extract towards production of PGE2. Essential oils demonstrated considerable antimicrobial activity against Gram positive bacteria, especially leaves against Clostridium perfringens. J. macrocarpa showed noteworthy biopotential and its usage in food and beverage manufacturing and as a source of potent herbal drugs should be considered. © 2014 Elsevier Ltd.