Defining Solvent and Concentration Type to Maximise Polyphenol Extraction and Antioxidant Activity in Rubia cordifolia L. and Taraxacum officinale Weber

This investigation aims to determine the most suitable solvent system and concentration for extracting different polyphenols and the antioxidant activity from different plant parts of Rubia cordifolia and Taraxacum officinale . The results revealed that the highest polyphenolic content and antioxidant activity were observed in 70% ethanol and methanol extracts, irrespective of the plant part. Notably, R. cordifolia exhibited high phenolic content in its leaves and roots, whereas T. officinale showed higher content in its roots. With respect to antioxidant and anti‐mutagenic activity, the extract of different plant parts showed varied responses. The highest antioxidant activity was observed in the root extracts of both plants, whereas the leaves of R. cordifolia and the roots of T. officinale exhibited higher anti‐mutagenic activity. Given the high polyphenol content and strong antioxidant and anti‐mutagenic activities, these plants have the potential to be used in phyto‐nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications.