A vital source of antioxidants, the leaves of the Ginkgo biloba tree represent a promising field of medicinal research. A full year of Ginkgo biloba leaf extracts were analyzed to determine peak antioxidant activity via sample time delays in the Briggs-Rauscher oscillating reaction. The assays revealed that senescent (yellow) Ginkgo leaves have a higher average antioxidant activity than the green leaves, suggesting antioxidant compounds may protect against metal-ion induced oxidation after chlorophyll is gone. Metal ion concentrations were determined by performing microwave digestion in hydrogen peroxide and nitric acid followed by atomic absorption spectroscopy. Analysis of calcium, iron, and magnesium ions indicate that peak levels correlate to the senescent phase of Ginkgo leaves. Chlorophyll levels determined by UV-visible and fluorescence spectroscopy were also correlated to the levels of metal ions. The combined analysis of antioxidants, metal ions, and chlorophyll levels provide a detailed chemical profile of Gingko leaf senescence.

Quantitative analysis of metal ion, chlorophyll, and antioxidant activity in senescing <i>Ginkgo biloba</i> leaves

245th National Meeting (2013)

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Quantitative analysis of metal ion, chlorophyll, and antioxidant activity in senescing Ginkgo biloba leaves