COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF PHYTOCHEMICALS, ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY AND NUTRITIONAL CONTENT OF DIFFERENT EXTRACTS FROM PRIMULA ELATIOR

Primula elatior is a medicinally and nutritionally valuable species within the Primulaceae family. In this study, comparative analyses were performed to evaluate the phytochemical composition, antioxidant activity, and nutritional content of ethanol (80%) and water extracts prepared from the aerial parts of the plant. Chemical profiles were determined using GC-MS, antioxidant potential was assessed through DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging assays, and total phenolic and flavonoid contents were quantified spectrophotometrically. In addition, macro- and micronutrient concentrations were analyzed by ICP-MS. Results showed that solvent choice markedly influenced the phytochemical composition and bioactivity. Both extracts were rich in 1,3,4,5-tetrahydroxycyclohexanecarboxylic acid, with the water extract containing a higher proportion of this compound, while the ethanol extract exhibited greater phytochemical diversity. Ethanol extract also demonstrated higher total phenolic and flavonoid contents and stronger antioxidant activity compared to the water extract.  Nutrient analysis revealed high levels of calcium, potassium, and magnesium, confirming the nutritional potential of the plant.  P. elatior presents moderate antioxidant capacity and significant nutritional value, supporting its potential as a functional food and phytotherapeutic resource. Nevertheless, the findings highlight the need for further studies focusing on in vivo bioavailability, broader pharmacological activities, and strategies to mitigate heavy metal accumulation.