Ethanol and aqueous extracts characterization from guava (Psidium guajava L.) and avocado (Persea americana Mill.) residues

Abstract In Mexico, avocado and guava production generate agronomic residues that contain bioactive compounds as secondary metabolites produced in plants. Their consumption offer favourable health effects; therefore, the objective of the present research was to characterize the bioactive compounds and antioxidant properties in guava (Psidium guajava L.) and avocado (Persea americana Mill.) residues (pulp or epicarp and leaves) at different ethanol concentrations (T1 100%, T2 75%, T3 50% and T4 25%, v/v) and in aqueous extracts (T5). Avocado epicarp (56.17 mg of EAG g-1 dm) and guava leaves 50% extracts (45.13 mg of EAG g-1 dm) presented the highest total phenol content; consequently, as it was expected avocado epicarp (328.95 TEAC/g dm) and guava leaves 25% extracts (320.01 TEAC/g dm) shown the highest antioxidant capacity. On the other hand, the highest saponins values were at avocado (100.60 mg g-1 dm) and guava leaves (76.96 mg g-1 dm) 25% extracts. Then avocado epicarp and guava leaves extracts are suggested as a high potential for agro-industrial, pharmacological and chemical uses.