Total flavonoid content and in vitro study on the sunscreen activity of extracts of leaves of Elaeocarpus floribundus blume

Background: Elaeocarpus floribundus blume leaves have traditionally been used to treat a variety of diseases; Its hot water infusion is used as a gargle to treat inflamed gums and relieve rheumatoid arthritis. Furthermore, previous research has shown that its methanol extract contains a high level of total phenolic content. Objective: To determine the total flavonoid content (TFC) of E.floribundus leaves extracts and to conduct preliminary research on their sunscreen activity. Method: This plant's dried-bulk leaves were macerated in three different solvents, n-hexane, ethylacetate, and methanol, in that order. The TFC of all extracts was determined using a colorimetric method with AlCl3 as the reagent and quercetine as the standard. In contrast, sunscreen activity was assessed by determining the value of the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer and 3-benzophenone as the positive control. Result: The results indicated that the n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol extracts contained 35.58 ± 1.87 mgQE/g extract, 60.59 ± 0.53 mgQE/g extract, and 149.28 ± 0.89 mgQE/g extract, respectively. With SPF values of 45.470; 44.791; 43.754; 38.861 and 21.102 for tested concentrations of 1000; 800; 600; 400 and 200 mg/mL, respectively, methanol extract demonstrated the highest potential for sun protection activity. However, this activity was not more potent than 3-benzophenone, which had an SPF value of 22,647 at a concentration of 50 mg/mL. Conclusion: The methanol extract of E. floribundus blume's leaves had the highest total flavonoid content and the greatest potential for sun protection among the tested extracts.