Seasonal variations that influence phytochemicals and antioxidant activities of Lonicera quinquelocularis

Lonicera quinquelocularis Hardwicke, commonly known as ‘Translucent Honeysuckle’ from Caprifoliaceae family, is a shrub used for medicinal purpose, especially in wound healing. Present study, is aimed at correlating the seasonal variations in phytochemical content and antioxidative behavior of the plant. Samples were collected during the pre- and post-monsoon seasons of the year. It was noticed that phenolics and flavonoids of plant stem and tannins in the leaves enhanced appreciably in both monsoon periods. Observations also corroborated with enhanced antioxidant activities, DPPH based IC₅₀value, and percentage efficacy improvement 8.7% in leaves and 43.4% in shoots was seen during that time. Seasonal variations, especially the temperature change (β10°C) could be the possible cause of enhanced phytochemicals. Since, these metabolites have a stronger capacity to donate electrons or hydrogen atoms including hydroxyl groups facilitating free radical scavenging. As a result of the increased antioxidant activity, the stem was ideal for harvesting the medicinal benefits of the plant during the post-monsoon season.