A Study of DNA Protective Ability of Peels of Different Citrus Species

The aim of the present study was to assess the DNA protection ability, free radicals scavenging activity, and phytochemical constituents of peel extracts of various species of citrus. Results showed the presence of carbohydrates, amino acids, glycosides, tannins, steroids and alkaloids. DNA protection assay showed maximum protection with methanolic extracts of peels of C. limon, C. reticulata, C. aurantium and C. sinensis as compared to C. limetta which showed less protection. DPPH assay used to assess the antioxidants showed the highest activity in the methanolic extract of peels of C. reticulata and C. aurantium with 75% and 86% respectively at 10 mg/ml. It is therefore concluded that C. limon, C. reticulata, C. aurantium and C. sinensis in terms of DNA protection and C. reticulata and C. aurantium in terms of free radicals scavenging activity are the best ones and these are the potential candidates to be used for further studies.