Comparative analysis of total phenolic and flavonoid content, antioxidant, and tyrosinase inhibitory properties of Silybum marianum L. from Iraq and Türkiye

This study investigates the phytochemical composition and bioactive properties of Silybum marianum L. seeds collected from Iraq and Türkiye, two regions with a history of traditional medicinal use of this herb. Extracts were analyzed for total phenolic and flavonoid content (TPC and TFC) using colorimetric methods, and for antioxidant [2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) assays] and tyrosinase inhibitory activity. Results showed that Turkish extracts had significantly higher TPC and TFC (165.65 ± 6.99 mg GAE/g and 7.66 ± 0.71mg QE/g, respectively) compared to Iraqi extracts, which correlated with enhanced antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibition. The study underscores the impact of regional and environmental factors on the medicinal attributes of S. marianum L., offering valuable information for optimizing its application in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Turkey.