Our research involves the biochemical study of plants that are used as folk remedies in the treatment of diabetes. Cymbopogon also known as lemon grass has been found to possess medicinal properties. The ingestion of this herb has been claimed to regulate blood sugar levels and to alleviate the symptoms associated with this illness. In these studies, we analyzed aqueous extracts from the grass for amino acids, proteins and carbohydrates. Amino acid analysis was done by means of Ninhydryn reagent, and protein content was performed by means of the Biuret reagent with detection at 540 nm. Sugar content determination was done quantitatively using the Benedict Reagent and quantitatively using the sulfuric acid-phenol method. Total phenols were detected using Folin-Ciocalteu reagent. The Total anti-oxidant capacity (TAOC) is determined using the FRAP (Ferric reducing antioxidant power) assay. The determination of ascorbic acid is done by using meta-phosphoric acid and 2,4 dinitrophenylhydrazine. Our results show no evidence for the presence of amino acids or proteins in the extracts. Reducing sugars were detected in the extracts and the concentrations were determined. Future work involves the analysis of grass extracts by using SDS electrophoresis and thin layer chromatography. Preparative column chromatography and RP-HPLC will be done to investigate the presence of quercetin, gallic and ferulic acids in Cymbopogon since these phenols have been previously proven to regulate clotting patterns and to decrease cellular oxidative stress.

Study of Cymbopogon (lemon grass) as potential agent in the treatment of diabetes

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.