Identification and characterization of low molecular weight polyphenols in berry leaf extracts by HPLC-DAD and LC-ESI/MS.

This paper reports the results of qualitative and quantitative analyses of low molecular weight phenolics from five berry leaf extract using HPLC-DAD and LC-ESI/MS. The identification of the black currant, raspberry, bilberry, honeysuckle, and strawberry leaf phytochemicals was based on the comparison of UV-vis absorption maxima (λ(max)) and mass spectral analysis. The peak identification in samples was also based on comparisons of the retention times (t(R)) of the isolated phytochemical standards. Knowledge of the precise phenolic profile of berry leaves may offer a scientific basis to put the underutilized berry leaves to good use as very cheap raw materials for polyphenol extract production. These studies indicated that these leaves can be used as a good and cheap source of bioactive constituents. These results suggest that berry leaves are a potential source of phenolics and have potential pro-healthy properties to contribute to human health.