Abstract
Polysaccharides extracted from papaya are a group of heteropolysaccharides, and their antioxidant activities and moisture-preserving activities were investigated employing various established in vitro systems. Available data obtained with in vitro models suggested that among the three samples, the second fraction (named after P2) showed significant inhibitory effects on superoxide, hydroxyl and DPPH radical; its reducing power was also the strongest. Data also reveal that P2 has strong in vitro moisture absorption and retention capacities as compared to hyaluronic acid and glycerol. These results clearly establish the possibility that polysaccharides extracted from papaya could be effectively employed as a type of natural moisturizer. However, comprehensive studies need to be conducted in experimental animal models.
Highlights
► Polysaccharides extracted from papaya are a group of hetero polysaccharides. ► The antioxidant and moisture-preserving activity were investigated in vitro systems. ► Fraction P2 showed significant antioxidant and moisture-preserving activities.
Keywords
Polysaccharide; Papaya; Antioxidant activities; Moisture-preserving activities