Antioxidant dynamics in Cajanus cajan (L.) and Melaleuca leucadendra (L.): From plants to nanoparticles

¹ Department of Applied Chemistry, Chaoyang University of Technology, 168 Jifeng East Road, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
² Nusaputera College of Pharmacy, Medoho Street 3, no 2, Semarang, Central Java, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: cnchen@cyut.edu.tw, mjlee@cyut.edu.tw

Abstract

This study marks a significant stride in nanotechnology, particularly in catalyst development, focusing on magnesium oxide nanoparticles and plant extracts from Cajanus cajan (L.) and Melaleuca leucadendra (L.), noted for their antioxidant properties. We aimed to unravel how these substances, both as traditional extracts and as nanoparticles, perform in various applications due to their antioxidant potential. Utilizing DPPH and FRAP assays, the research revealed that Ascorbic acid consistently exhibited strong antioxidant capabilities, serving as a reliable benchmark. Interestingly, Cajanus cajan (L.) and M. leucadendra (L.) extracts varied in their antioxidant effectiveness. A key finding was the pronounced increase in antioxidant efficacy when these extracts, particularly from Cajanus cajan (L.), were transformed into nanoparticles, as reflected in elevated FRAP values. This observation underscores the potential of nanoparticles to significantly enhance the effectiveness of plant extracts. The implications of this advancement are far-reaching, opening new avenues in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries for developing therapeutic agents and antioxidant-rich foods. This research contributes notably to pharmaceutical sciences, emphasizing the vital role of nanoparticle technology in enhancing the antioxidant qualities of plant-based substances. It lays a solid foundation for further exploration into the mechanisms underlying nanoparticle-mediated improvements, offering valuable insights into the application of nanotechnology in health and nutrition.