Effects of Blue Light LED Compositions on Antioxidant Properties and Phytochemical Profiling of Bentong Ginger (Zingiber officinale var. Bentong)

Ahmad, Ayesha (2026) Effects of Blue Light LED Compositions on Antioxidant Properties and Phytochemical Profiling of Bentong Ginger (Zingiber officinale var. Bentong). Final Year Project (Bachelor), Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology.

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Abstract

Manipulation of light intensity using Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs) holds a promising future for enhancing the nutraceutical value of commercial plants grown in controlled environments. This study investigates the antioxidant effects and phytochemical profile of two different blue light intensities on different tissue extracts of Bentong ginger. The plants were independently germinated and grown with two LED compositions: 75% red light background with either 100% or 75% blue light. Four methanolic extracts were prepared from the treated plants: Ginger seed and New S&L from each of the light treatments. Their antioxidant activities were evaluated spectrophotometrically using DPPH and ABTS scavenging assays along with Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assay. Phytochemical profiling was determined by Total Phenolic Content (TPC) and Total Flavonoid Content (TFC). Results were compared and evaluated using one-way and two-way ANOVA (p ≤ 0.05). The results displayed a profound tissue-specific response irrespective of the light composition, the Ginger seed samples exhibited a significantly stronger antioxidant activity and higher TPC and TFC compared to the new stem and leaves. This confirmed the rhizome's role as a primary repository for bioactive compounds. However, the intensity and composition of blue light had no significant difference between the Ginger seed samples. In contrast, 75% blue light treatment exhibited a dramatically enhanced antioxidant and phytochemical profile compared to the 100% blue light intensity in the new stem and leaves samples. In conclusion, while the rhizome is inherently a richer source of antioxidants, mediocre differences in blue intensity light does not significantly enhance its antioxidant capacity. However, in photosynthetically active aerial tissues of the plant, a moderate 75% blue light acts as a more effective elicitor than high (100%) intensity for boosting the nutraceutical value and quality of Bentong ginger. This highlights the potential of light regimen optimization for improving antioxidant and phytochemical properties in Bentong ginger.