Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) leaves are a plant-based commodity with the potential to harbor secondary metabolites possessing antioxidant properties. This study aimed to determine the secondary metabolite profile and evaluate the antioxidant capacity of an ethanolic extract of oil palm leaves using the DPPH method. An experimental laboratory approach was employed, beginning with the processing of raw plant material (simplicia) and extraction via maceration using analytical-grade (p.a.) ethanol. Subsequent stages involved phytochemical screening and the assessment of DPPH free-radical scavenging activity using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, saponins, tannins, glycosides, alkaloids, and terpenoids in the extract. Antioxidant testing identified an optimal DPPH wavelength of 516 nm and an operating time of 12–13 minutes. The extract yielded an IC50 value of 5.796 µg/mL, compared to 1.335 µg/mL for the vitamin C standard. In conclusion, the ethanolic extract of oil palm leaves is classified as a very potent free-radical scavenger, making it highly suitable for further development as a source of natural antioxidants.
Copyrights © 2026