Lentisk (Pistacia lentiscus L.) a Renewable Source of Pure Shikimic Acid and its Antioxidant Activity

Abstract

Background: Pistacia lentiscus L. (Lentisk) an evergreen tree or shrub that is ubiquitous across the semi-arid areas of the Mediterranean and native to all Mediterranean islands. All parts of Lentisk, including resin, leaves, gum, fruits, and aerial parts, have been used as valuable remedies for various diseases since antiquity. Objective: This paper highlights a novel source for the isolation of pure shikimic acid from the Lentisk ethyl acetate extract, which could provide an alternative and renewable solution for shikimic acid in the future. Methods: Characterisation by melting point, elemental analysis, FTIR, HRMS, 1H-NMR, DEPT( 135)-NMR, and 13C-NMR spectroscopy confirmed the purity of shikimic acid. The antioxidant activity of Lentisk extract and shikimic acid was performed by DPPH free radical scavenging activity assay. Results: The results prove that Lentisk is an alternative and renewable source of shikimic acid. With regard to activity, the shikimic acid does not act as the lead compound in the antioxidant activity of Lentisk extract. Conclusion: Lentisk is a novel alternative and renewable source of shikimic acid.