Changes in antioxidant content in selected cultivars of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) leaves during different stages of maturity: CHANGES IN ANTIOXIDANT CONTENT IN SAFFLOWER LEAVES AT DIFFERENT STAGES OF MATURITY

The antioxidant content in the safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) leaves was estimated during 30, 50, 70 and 90 days in selected spiny (Manjira, TSF-1 and Annigeri-1) and non-spiny (NARI-6) cultivars. The total carotenoid content was highest during the 30th day in all the four cultivars ranging from 7122.56 - 14892.80µg/100g, while it was lowest during 70th day ranging from 1476.00 - 4066.40µg/100g. Ascorbic acid content was highest during 50th day in Annigeri-1 and Manjira, whereas it was highest on 70th day in NARI-6 variety. The results also indicate that TSF-1 is a poor source of ascorbic acid when compared to Annigeri-1, Manjira and NARI-6. The DPPH (1, 1- dipheny l- 2-picryl-hydrazil) scavenging activity and total flavonoids of safflower leaves were higher at 30th day while superoxide anion activity and total phenolics were higher at later stages. Stage of maturity has a remarkable influence on the antioxidant content ofsafflower leaves. However, consumption of the safflower leaves at any stage of maturity provides antioxidants in the diet through various mechanisms.