Characteristics of Kersen Leaf (Muntingia calabura L.) and Bay Leaf (Syzygium polyanthum) Herbal Tea as Antioxidants

Abstract

Antioxidants can protect body cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals can damage cells and body tissue. The body has natural antioxidants but not in large quantities so the body needs antioxidants that come from outside. Antioxidants from outside the body can come from various natural ingredients native to Indonesia which have potential as antioxidants, one of which comes from cherry leaves (Muntingia calabura L.) and bay leaves (Syzygium polyanthum). This research aims to determine the antioxidant activity of cherry leaf (Muntingia calabura L.) and bay leaf (Syzygium polyanthum) herbal tea so that people can use it as an alternative source of antioxidants. The data collection method is carried out using instruments in the laboratory. The research results showed that cherry leaves (Muntingia calabura L.) and bay leaves (Syzygium polyanthum) were identified as containing alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins and terpenoids. Simplicia's characteristic data meets the requirements of SNI (Indonesian National Standards). As well as the IC₅₀ value of herbal tea, cherry leaves (Muntingia calabura L.) were found to be 1,39 µg/ml and bay leaves (Syzygium polyanthum) 1,72 µg/ml, which means they have very strong antioxidant activity because the IC₅₀ value is <50.