Comparison of phytochemical properties of Indian and Sri Lankan turmeric rhizomes (Curcuma longa)

Turmeric, “Curcuma longa” is a prominent spice widely consumed throughout the world. Phytochemical properties of Indian and Sri Lankan Turmeric rhizomes were qualitatively as well as quantitatively analyzed. Two Indian and three Sri Lankan samples were collected and subjected to analyze antioxidant capacity using DPPH radical scavenging assay and total phenolic content according to Folin –Ciacaltea method. Qualitative analysis of phytochemicals with respect to Saponin, Tannin, Alkaloids, Flavonoids and Sterols depicted positive results for both Indian and Sri Lankan samples whereas quantification of antioxidant potential and phenol content showed variations among both types of turmeric. This was attributed to structural factors of each compound. The total Phenolic content and DPPH free radical scavenging capacity among the turmeric types were ranging from 627.4 to 422.68mg GAE/100g and from 7.7 to 3.48µg/ml respectively; which shows that both types are rich in phytochemicals.