Changes in Some Phenolic Compounds of Crocus sativus L. Petalsand Leaves During Developmental Stages

Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) belongs to the Iridaceae family. Saffron has been widely used as spice and medicinal plant. In this study, we examined and evaluated variation of some phenolic compounds in petal and leaf of Iran saffron due to harvesting time. The petals of Saffron Were collected at the same period of 24 hours in different days ( October 26Th , 27th and 28th ) and The leaves of saffron were collected at the same periods of 30 days in different months (September 27th, October 27th , November 26th). After drying in shade, petal and leaf composition analyzed using an HPLC system. The main phenolic compounds that we investigated, were Gallic acid, Caffeic acid, Ferulic Acid, Quercetin and Kaempferol. Our results revealed that different harvesting time significantly influenced the phenolic compounds content of petals and leaves. The high content of phenolic compounds resulted at first harvest time of petal (October 26Th ). Although, phenolic compounds in leaves first increased due to developmental stages then decreased, except the content of kaempferol that didn’t show any meaningful changes. The highest value of phenolic content in leaves was obtained from secondharvest time (October 27th ; Flowering time). So we announced the appropriate stage of development to extract phenolic compounds for more antioxidant properties.

Keywords:

Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) , HPLC , Developmental Stages , Phenolic Compounds