Abstract:

Anthocyanins were extracted from litchi fruit pericarp with first 60% enthanol and then ethyl acetate, and were purified with macroporous resin XAD-7HP and Sephadex LH-20 in turn. HPLC analysis showed that cyanidin-3-o-rutinoside was main component in the purified anthocyanins containing less flavonol. Total antioxidant capability and scavenging activities to hydroxyl radical, DPPH and superoxide anion of the anthocyanins were determined. Results showed that the anthocyanins had excellent antioxidant activities, and the IC50s to hydroxyl radical, DPPH radical, and superoxide anion radical were 0.69, 1.31, and 1.78 mg/L, respectively.

Key words: litchi pericarp pigment, anthocyanin, antioxidant