Title : Impact of seasonal variation on antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potentials of Cistus creticus extracts
Abstract:
This study investigates the impact of seasonal variation on the phytochemical composition and biological potential of Cistus creticus extracts collected during spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Extracts were analyzed for their phenolic and flavonoid contents and evaluated for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and photoprotective properties. Distinct seasonal differences were observed. Extracts obtained in spring and summer, characterized by higher concentrations of bioactive compounds, exhibited the strongest biological performance, including pronounced antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects as well as notable photoprotective capacity. The spring extract also demonstrated significant in vivo anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities, while the winter extract displayed the most pronounced in vitro anti-inflammatory potential. These findings highlight the crucial role of harvest season in determining both the phytochemical richness and pharmacological efficiency of C. creticus, emphasizing its potential as a valuable natural source of antioxidants and photoprotective agents. The study underscores the importance of seasonal optimization strategies for maximizing the therapeutic and cosmeceutical applications medicinal plant.
Keywords: Cistus Creticus, Seasonal variation, Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory activity.
