Investigation of the Potential Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Effects of Cotinus coggygria Scop.

Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare the total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, antioxidant activities (DPPH• and ABTS•+ scavenging effects), and α-glucosidase inhibition effects of different parts of Cotinus coggygria Scop. (green leaves, red leaves, branches, and the heartwood) collected at different times. Methods: The total phenolic content of the extracts was determined using the method developed by Folin and Denis and modified by Singleton. The total flavonoid content was determined according to the method developed by Lar'kina and colleagues. To test the antioxidant capacities of the extracts, DPPH• and ABTS•+ scavenging capacity assays were conducted; and to test their antidiabetic effects, α-glucosidase enzyme inhibition assay was performed. Results: It was found that the heartwood extract had the highest values in terms of total phenolic content and total flavonoid content. In the antioxidant activity assays, similar to the results of the total phenolic and total flavonoid content determinations, the heartwood extract also showed the highest content. However, it was observed that all other extracts also exhibited high antioxidant activity, especially against the ABTS•+. In the α-glucosidase inhibition assay conducted to examine the antidiabetic effects of the extracts, it was found that in addition to red and green leaves, other extracts also possessed antidiabetic activity. Conclusion: The antioxidant and antidiabetic effects of extracts obtained from different parts of C. coggygria, a species used in traditional medicine for its various therapeutic effects, have been scientifically evaluated, proven, and compared.