Dynamics of polyphenolics formation in different plant parts and different growth phases of selected buckwheat cultivars

Abstract

The changes of dynamics of total polyphenolics formation in various anatomical parts (stems, leaves, flowers and seeds) of common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench.) during vegetation period were surveyed. Six cultivars were analysed: Pyra, Spacinska, Emka, Kasho, Jana C1 and Hrusowska. The content of total polyphenolics was evaluated in growth phase I. (formation of buds), in phase II. (at the beginning of flowering), in phase III. (full blossoming) and in phase IV. (full ripeness). The total polyphenolics content was assessed by using Folin-Ciocalteau assay spectrophotometrically on Shimadzu UV-1800. When evaluating all four anatomical parts of common buckwheat we can state that the flowers contained the highest concentration of total polyphenolics where the values were in range from 14.93 to 25.16 mg.g-1. In last phase (IV. phase) where stems, leaves, and seeds were evaluated, buckwheat leaves exerted the highest content of these compounds, and the values were in range from 68.74 to 90.27 mg.g-1. Maximal increase of total phenolics content was manifested in each variety in phase IV., i.e. at the end of the vegetation period. From the standpoint of the content of total polyphenolics in individual anatomical parts the cultivars Pyra, Hrusowska and Emka were the most suitable ones as functional foods.