Variations in antioxidant and indole alkaloid status in different parts of two varieties of Catharanthus roseus

AIM: To evaluate the antioxidant potential and indole alkaloid variations in different parts of two varieties (rosea and alba) of Catharanthus roseus. METHODS: The antioxidant potentials were examined in terms of non-enzymatic antioxidant molecules and activities of antioxidant enzymes. The non-enzymatic antioxidant molecules studied were ascorbic acid, α-tocopherol and reduced glutathione. The estimated antioxidant enzymes were superoxide dismutase, ascorbate peroxidase, catalase, peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase. The analyses were carried out in the field-collected samples. The antioxidant and alkaloid profiles were estimated from roots, stems, leaves, flowers and pods. RESULTS: The roots and stems had higher antioxidant content when compared with other parts of the plant. The lowest content was found in flowers and pods. The rosea variety was good performer in terms of antioxidant and alkaloid contents. The activities of antioxidant enzymes were higher in leaves when compared with other parts. But indole alkaloid content was found to be higher in the roots of rosea variety. CONCLUSION: The pink-flowered rosea variety of Catharanthus roseus is more suitable for cultivation in terms of antioxidant and alkaloid contents.