Chemical composition and antioxidant activities of essential oil of Abelmoschus esculentus L. from different parts

The volatile oil of leave, flower and seed of Abelmoschus esculentus L. was obtained by steam distillation. Their chemical components were separated and identified by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The amount and relative percentage content of the components from the volatile oil were determined by the area normalization method. The DPPH free radical scavenging activity (IC₅₀) of different parts volatile oil was tested by the use of trolox as a control. The results of experiments show that there are 43 compounds in flowers, 20 compounds in leaves, and 29 compounds in seeds. There are 11 compounds in common in the three parts of volatile oil. The volatile oils of different parts all have antioxidant activity, and the size of antioxidant capacity: flowers>;leaves>;seeds. The IC₅₀ of the ability of scavenging DPPH free radical are respectively 3.652μL/mL, 5.170μL/mL, and 12.396μL/mL. The result of the experiment can provide reference for further research on the composition of Abelmoschus esculentus L. volatile oil as well as for the exploration and utilization of it.