Extraction, Characterization And Total Phenolic Content Of Local (Malaysian) Green Sweet Potato (Ipomoea Batatas) Leaves

Sweet potato leaves (SPL) have been used by malay rural folks as traditional topical medication for eczematous skin conditions especially psoriasis. Local Chinese consume green SPL as vegetable. SPL contains high amount of polyphenols, a proven antioxidant and free radical scavengers. Local green SPL was extracted for hydrophilic and lipophilic compounds using water, ethanol and hexane as solvents. Water extraction method gave the best yield per kg fresh weight. Total phenolic content was 4.48 mg GAE/g dw SPL, slightly lower of Japan's and USA's averages. HPLC analysis revealed significant amount of caffeic acid as one of its major phenolic components beside the dominant chlorogenic acid.