Phytochemical Characterization, Mineral Composition, and Biological Activities of Lippia citriodora Leaf Extracts: Influence of Geographical and Climatic Variations in Algeria
Hayet Berkoune, Dahmane Dahmane, Mokhtar Benmohamed, Fahima Abdellatif, Latifa Khattabi, Khaled Aggoun, Khalil Guelifet, Saad Mechraoui, Zohra Chakrar, Barbara Sawicka, Ayomide Victor Atoki, Soumeya Krimat, Soumia Merah, Tahar Dob, Samira Tata, Mohammed MessaoudiObjective
This study evaluated the influence of geographical origin and climatic conditions in Algeria on the phytochemical profile, mineral composition, and biological activities of hydro-ethanolic leaf extracts from
Methods
Samples (LC1–LC4) were collected from four distinct regions. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were measured, and biological potential was assessed via antioxidant (DPPH, FRAP), photoprotective (SPF), anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, larvicidal, enzymatic inhibition assays (AChE, BChE, α-amylase, tyrosinase, and urease). Statistical significance was determined using ANOVA and t-tests.
Results
Environmental stress in the arid region (Ghardaia, LC4) stimulated the highest antioxidant capacity (DPPH IC
50
= 38.87 µg/mL). All extracts exhibited excellent photoprotective properties with SPF values exceeding 39. The most significant variations were observed in enzymatic assays: the extract from the sub-coastal region (Tipaza, LC3) was identified as the most potent tyrosinase inhibitor (67.35% inhibition at 3.125 µg/mL; p < 0.01 vs. LC4) and the only sample active against α-amylase. Urease inhibition remained high across all regions (IC
50
< 20 µg/mL). Extract (Jijel, LC 1) being the only sample to exhibit significant antibacterial activity. Extracts (Djelfa, LC2) and LC4 displayed lower toxicity, both presenting higher LD
50
values (269.15 µg/mL).
Conclusions
: The multidisciplinary screening of