Description of the antioxidant capacity of Calafate berries (Berberis microphylla) collected in southern Chile

Abstract

The Berberidaceae family of shrubs has about 20 species present in Chile; however, the Calafate (Berberis microphylla) native to Chilean and Argentinean Patagonia, is the most widely distributed. The objective of this study was to compare the antioxidant capacity of Calafate collected at different locations in southern Chile, specifically Aysén and Magallanes. Methods: 2000 g of Calafate berries were harvested in both regions. The fruit was lyophilized for subsequent quantification of polyphenols, anthocyanins and antioxidant capacity. Results: All parameters evaluated were superior in the samples from Aysén. Conclusion: The results confirm the high content of polyphenolic compounds present in Calafate, with variations according to the geographical area where they grow. The higher antioxidant capacity of the fruit harvested in Aysén could be associated with the abiotic stress present in that location.

Keywords:
phenolic compounds; anthocyanin; berberis; abiotic stress