Preetha P.S. and Devika Gopinath
Abstract
Sesamum radiatum Schumach & Thonn., belonging to the family Pedaliaceae, is an erect annual herbaceous plant traditionally used in African and Asian medicinal systems. It has been employed in the treatment of inflammatory conditions, wounds, digestive disorders, and skin ailments, and is also recognized for its astringent and antioxidant properties. The present study was to evaluate the morphological features, elemental composition, and antioxidant potential of the leaves of Sesamum radiatum Schumach and Thonn. Morphological features are crucial for botanical identification and pharmacognostic standardization. Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry revealed the presence of essential minerals like Iron (Fe), Zinc (Zn), Manganese (Mn), Nickel (Ni), Copper (Cu), and Chromium (Cr). Antioxidant activity, assessed by the 2,2- diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay, disclosed strong free radical scavenging potential. The results shows that Sesamum radiatum Schumach & Thonn leaves can be used in herbal and therapeutic applications.