Abstract
The increasing incidence of chronic diseases, interest in bioactive compounds from agro-industrial by-products is increasing. This study explored the chemical profile and bioactivities of Cornus mas and Cornus sanguinea leaf extracts obtained through various extraction methods, especially focusing on the lesser-known C. sanguinea. The study assessed their anti-inflammatory properties (inhibition of NF-κB, nitric oxide reduction), antioxidant activity, and hypoglycaemic effects (inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase). LC-ESI-QTOF-MS analysis identified phenolic acids, iridoids, and flavonoids as key constituents. Hydroalcoholic maceration of dried C. mas and ethanol maceration of fresh C. sanguinea were fractionated using XAD-16 resin. Bioactivity was tested on fractions and on three key compounds: sweroside, cornuside, and ellagic acid. Sweroside and cornuside inhibited highly NO production. Moreover, sweroside exhibited a notable α-glucosidase inhibition. These findings highlight the potential benefits of Cornus leaves, providing a basis to develop Cornus-based products for the prevention or treatments for type 2 diabetes and inflammation. © 2025 The Authors