Synergistic use of Punica granatum peel and Moringa oleifera leaf to develop a functional and sustainable decoction

The study aimed to formulate an aqueous decoction enriched with bioactive compounds of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) peel and moringa (Moringa oleifera) leaf, combining the functional and therapeutic potential. Decoction prepared in ratios 50:50, 70:30, and 80:20 of pomegranate peel powder (PPP) and moringa leaf powder (ML) with warm water (20 mL), sugar (5 g), and lemon drops. The prepared decoctions were alkaline (pH 8-13), and the ratio 80:20 added with three lemon drops revealed significantly high (p < 0.05) total soluble solids (TSS), tannin, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin C, and no detectable caffeine hence considered caffeine-free. PPP: ML (80:20), along with three lemon drops, qualifies the highest sensory scores regarding appearance, taste, aroma, and color for the approved composition. The PPP decoction contains low sodium concentration but is rich in magnesium (36 mg/100g), calcium (198.7 mg/100g), zinc (8.75 mg/100g), and iron (2.79 mg/100g) compared to other ratios. The total flavonoid (3.88 mg/100g and 4.01 mg/100g), phenolic content (78.22 mg/ 100g and 85.61 mg/100g), ferric-reducing antioxidant potential (1.91 mg/100g and 1.51 mg/100g) and free radical scavenging IC50 5.92 mu g/mL and 5.59 mu g/mL, observed for the ratio 80:20 with and without lemon drops decoction. However, stronger antioxidant power, i.e., lowest IC50 3.50 mu g/mL, was observed in PPP decoction. In conclusion, the PPP and ML decoctions ratios of 80:20 with or without lemon drops are considered caffeine-free and a rich cocktail of bioactive compounds and minerals of nutritional and functional importance. Therefore, PPP and ML decoctions may be adopted in the beverage industry, serving as an instant source of bioactive compounds, vitamins, and minerals extracted more simply and economically in an aqueous solution.