Comparison of total phenol and flavonoit content, antioxidant, and tyrosinase inhibitory activity of Silybum marianum L. used in Iraq and Turkey

This study compares the phytochemical composition and bioactive properties of Silybum marianum L. (Asteraceae) seeds collected from Iraq and Turkey. A medicinal plant widely used in traditional medicine in Iraq and Turkey. Extracts were prepared from seeds collected from both regions, and their phytochemical and bioactive properties were evaluated. The results indicated regional variations in phenolic and flavonoit concentrations, which correlated with differences in antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibition activities. Extracts were prepared using ethanol-water solutions and analyzed for total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoit content (TFC) via the Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum chloride colorimetric methods, respectively. Antioxidant capacity was assessed using DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging assays, while tyrosinase inhibitory activity was evaluated using the L-DOPA method. The Turkish samples exhibited higher concentrations of TPC and TFC compared to the Iraqi samples, which was associated with stronger antioxidant activities. However, in terms of tyrosinase inhibition activity, the Iraqi extracts demonstrated greater efficacy. These findings highlight the diverse influence of geographical and environmental factors on the phytochemical profile and biological activities of Silybum marianum L., offering valuable insights for its optimized application in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations.