Study of in vitro antioxidant and antibacterial potential of different tea clones

Background: Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze (tea) belongs to the family of Theaceae and is one of the most popular beverages. According to traditional Chinese medicine, its phytochemicals have the ability to cure various diseases of the liver, heart, spleen, and lungs. This study was done to explore the phytochemical potentiality of leaf extracts from different tea clones with special emphasis on their antioxidant, total phenol, flavonoid, and antibacterial activity. Methods: The leaves were extracted in methanol for various qualitative, and quantitative tests like antioxidant assay, total phenolic content, flavonoid content etc. Results: The result of this study delivers comparative data about the biochemical properties of various tea clones which will further help in future studies. Leaves extract of tea clones like TV-9, TV-26, CP-1 and Phoobsering-312 showed promising antioxidant activity. Leaves extract of TV-9, TV-23, TV-26 and CP-1 has shown an inhibitory effect on the growth of Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli. Among the clones, Phoobsering-312 was found to be the most prominent tea clone as it exhibited total phenolic content, and antioxidant properties along with very significant antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis. Conclusion: This study showed the Darjeeling Garden clone (Phobsering-312) could be selected as an ideal clone for cultivation in the study area. This is to sustain the phytochemical quality of tea and gain health benefits, as the quality of manufactured tea is reflected in all aspects of the green harvest.