2022, Vol. 5, Issue 2, Part B

The phytochemical composition, the antioxidant and the insecticidal activities of Tunisian Euphorbia helioscopia L. (Euphorbiaceae) leaves and the flower's aqueous extracts were revealed. A variation in phenolic and flavonoid contents was observed between samples. Leaves aqueous extract revealed the best phenolic contents (25.2 mg GAE/g DW). However, flower extracts were characterized by the highest flavonoid contents (8.53 mg RE/g DW). The level of antioxidant capacity estimated by free radical scavenging activity (DPPH) varied significantly among organs. Leaves aqueous extract revealed the best results (IC₅₀=35.11 µg/ml). E. helioscopia aqueous extracts were also evaluated for their insecticidal effect against Tribolium castaneum, with three concentrations 10 (T1), 5 (T2), and 2.5% (T3). Probit analysis revealed that flower aqueous extracts of E. helioscopia exhibited the lowest LC50 with 2.9 mg/mL.