Descrição
Natural matrices represent a rich source of biologically active compounds and are an example of
molecular diversity, with recognized potential in drug discovery and development. Many plants
frequently used in folk medicine have antioxidant and pharmacological properties connected with
the presence of phenolic compounds, especially flavonoids [1]. The biological, pharmacological
and medicinal properties of this group of compounds have been extensively reviewed (2].
Ethnobotanical surveys conducted in the Northeast of Portugal highlighted the decoction of
Helichrysum stoechas (L.) Moench (shrubby everl asting; port. douradinha) for cold, bronchitis and
fever [3].
In the present study, the phenolic composition of H. stoechas (inflorescences and leafy flowering
stems) was analyzed by reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography coupled to
diode array detection and mass spectrometry with electron spray ionization (HPLC-DAD-ESI/MS),
after extraction with methanol:water (80:20 v/v).
Seventeen different phenolic compounds were identified, in which eight were characterized as
phenolic acids, being 5-0-caffeoylquinic and 3,5-0-dicaffeoylquinic acids the most abundant
compounds. Furthermore, nine flavonols were also identified, mostly derivatives of quercetin and
myricetin, being myricetin 0 -acylhexoside the most abundant flavonoid. Overall, the analytical
screening by HPLC-MS represents a valid and rapid approach in the search of new bioactive
phenolic compounds.
; Barros, Lillian 
