Analysis Of Photochemical Compounds In Moringa Oleifera Leaves With Capillary Zone Electrophoresis

Moringa oleifera is a tropical plant that has been traditionally used as a dietary supplement and medicinal plant. Previous research has suggested that consuming the leaves of Moringa oleifera has positive health benefits due to the bioactive compounds present. Therefore, the identification of bioactive compounds, either acting alone or in combination with other compounds is needed. A literature review on previously identified in Moringa oleifera leaves resulted in 168 phytochemical compounds identified which have various bioactivities. This study focuses on the phytochemicals that interact with light in the UV and visible regions, or photochemicals. Of interest are compounds that absorb in the phenolic (235-335 nm) and flavonoid regions (225-430 nm). Paper chromatography results suggest the presence of flavonoids in Moringa oleifera leaves. The absorbance and total phenolic content results suggest that the optimal extraction method was shaking in 80% ethanol. Capillary zone electrophoresis with absorbance detection at 340 nm was used to analyze the flavonoid compounds in the Moringa oleifera leaf extract solutions and isoquercetin and rutin were suggested to be present, while p-coumaric acid was most likely not present. Using capillary zone electrophoresis will assist with identification of bioactive compounds that promote positive health effects.