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Phytochemical Characterization, Mineral Composition, and Biological Activities of Lippia citriodora Leaf Extracts: Influence of Geographical and Climatic Variations in Algeria

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Objective 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 Lippia citriodora . 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 L . citriodora leaves extracts proves that environmental stress factors across Algerian regions (arid, semi-arid, and humid) create distinct ‘chemical signatures’. The arid region (Ghardaia) optimizes protective metabolites, while the humid coastal regions (Jijel, Tipaza) trigger the synthesis of aggressive defense molecules (antibacterial and larvicidal). This regional differentiation allows for the strategic selection of raw materials tailored to specific industrial needs. The selection of the cultivation site is crucial for achieving specific therapeutic outcomes, with sub-coastal regions favoring enzymatic inhibition and arid regions maximizing antioxidant potential.

Source: Natural Product Communications

DOI: 10.1177/1934578x261504572