Gliricidia sepium (Jacq.) Kunth (Fabaceae): antioxidant potential of the flowers of a shade tree

Gliricidia sepium is a well-known leguminous tree with vibrant lilac shade flowers widely distributed in the tropical and subtropical regions. Native to the Central and South America, this species has been introduced to several countries due to its adaptability to warm climates and its importance in agroforestry systems. The plant is also traditionally valued for its medicinal properties and bioactive compounds. The present study evaluates the antioxidant potential of G. sepium flower extracts using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. Methanolic and ethanolic extracts were prepared and tested at different concentrations. Both the extracts exhibited radical scavenging activity, with the ethanolic extract showing comparatively higher inhibition values than the methanolic extract. The presence of flavonoids and other polyphenolic compounds reported in G. sepium may attribute to the observed antioxidant activity. According to the observed results, the flowers of G. sepium possess antioxidant potential and may be considered further pharmacological studies and product development.