In-depth Evaluation of Nutritional Composition, Phytochemical Profile, and Antioxidant Potential of <em>Phytolacca americana</em> L. Berries

Phytolacca americana L. (pokeweed) is a widespread invasive species whose berries remain poorly characterized in terms of nutritional value and bioactive potential, although being associated to some traditional uses. This study provides the first integrated characterization of the nutritional profile, mineral composition (ICP-MS), fatty acid profile (GC-FID), vitamin E content (HPLC-DAD-FLD), bioactive compounds and phenolic profile (HPLC-DAD). The studied berries showed high levels of carbohydrates and dietary fiber, along with potassium as the dominant mineral and a lipid fraction enriched in polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly linoleic and α-linolenic acids. In turn, α- and γ-tocopherol were the only detected vitamers of vitamin E. Hydroalcoholic extracts exhibited high total phenolic, flavonoid, and saponin contents, consistent with the phenolic profile dominated by quercetin, ellagic acid, and rutin. Antioxidant capacity assessed through DPPH• and FRAP assays displayed a strong dose-dependent response, with rapid activity increases at low extract concentrations and saturation at higher doses. Thus, P. americana hydroalcoholic extracts protected erythrocytes from oxidative AAPH- and H2O2-induced hemolysis. These findings highlight P. americana berries as a source of compounds with nutritional and functional relevance, although denoting the need for adequate processing to reduce its potential toxicity. Overall, these results support P. americana as a source of bioactive molecules with prospective applications in food and nutraceutical sectors.