New analytical approaches to asses the phenolic composition os Guava (Psidium Guavaja L.) leaves with antidiabetic related factors bioactivity

Abstract

Non-communicable diseases are one of the most concerning health problems worldwide, due to the mortality and morbidity rates, and the high cost for the public health system. In the last years, diabetes mellitus (DM) and its risk factors, which include cardiovascular complications, have become one of the illnesses under study. Prior to drug treatment, a change in lifestyle is recommended, physical activity and a plant-based diet, due to the beneficial effects beyond its nutritional composition. Psidium guajava L., popularly known as guava, is a small tree belonging to the myrtle family (Myrtaceae). It is native from America, although its ability to adapt itself to several edapho-climatic conditions, allows its cultivation in areas such as Andalusia region. In particular, preparations of the leaves have traditionally been used in folk medicine for managing several diseases. Currently, there is clear evidence that these beneficial effects are promoted by secondary metabolites present in guava leaves. In this regard, there is increasing interest in studying their bioactive composition, mainly of phenolic compounds, and their effect on DM and some of its risk factors. Consequently, the overall aims of this dissertation are: To assess different advanced analytical tools in phenolic-enriched extracts of Psidium guajava L. leaves and to study their in vivo bioactivity to consider the possibility for further nutraceutical and/or functional food development.