Phytochemical, Antioxidant and Anticancer Properties of Ayusip (Vaccinium uliginosum L.) from Benguet Province, Philippines

Abstract

Traditional medicinal knowledge remains an important source of healthcare for many communities in the Philippines, particularly in rural and Indigenous areas where access to modern treatments is limited. In this context, Vaccinium uliginosum (locally known as Ayusip), a plant used by indigenous peoples in Tublay, Benguet Province, has drawn interest due to its reported therapeutic applications for ailments such as cough, flu, and even cancer. This study investigates the cytotoxic properties of Ayusip, aiming to provide scientific validation for its traditional use and assess its potential as a source of bioactive compounds for cancer treatment. Leaves of V. uliginosum were collected, identified, and subjected to methanol extraction, with further partitioning using n-hexane and ethyl acetate. Phytochemical analysis indicated high levels of flavonoids, saponins, steroids, and tannins. Quantification showed significant phenolic (24.58±8.11 GAE mg/g) and flavonoid (121.38±14.04 QE mg/g) content. Antioxidant testing (DPPH assay) revealed strong activity (97.86±1.33%) at 25 mg/mL. The cytotoxicity of V. uliginosum was assessed against normal embryonic lung fibroblasts (MRC-5) and cancer cell lines HCT-116 (colorectal) and A549 (lung adenocarcinoma) using the MTT assay. Results showed that only the n-hexane extract was toxic to MRC-5 cells at high concentrations, while methanol and n-hexane extracts were highly cytotoxic to HCT-116 cells. In A549 cells, only n-hexane extract exhibited cytotoxicity. These findings suggest that V. uliginosum has promising cytotoxic effects, particularly at higher concentrations, with notable activity against HCT-116 cells. Interestingly, its cytotoxicity is biphasic: high concentrations induce maximum toxicity, whereas lower concentrations may encourage cell proliferation. Overall, this study offers insights into the cytotoxic potential of V. uliginosum, a traditionally used plant among Benguet’s IPs, highlighting its potential medicinal value.