Antioxidative Effect and DNA Protecting Property of Moringa oleifera Root Extracts

Abstract

Moringa oleifera root (dehydrated) powder, extracts - aqueous (WE), acetone (AE) and methanol (ME) were analyzed for phytochemical and antioxidant components by various in vitro assays. The root was found to be a good source of phytochemicals viz, glutathione, a-Tocopherol polyphenols, tannins, alkaloids, saponins. All three solvent extracts exhibited a dose dependent antioxidant activity. The antioxidant properties were established on free radicals; its ability to reduce iron and FeSO₄-induced microsomal lipid peroxidation. All three extracts were able to protect DNA from oxidative damage. The suggestive antioxidant mechanism of action of Moringa oleifera is by scavenging reactive oxygen species.

Keywords:

• Radical scavenging activity
• reducing power assay
• lipid peroxidation
• microsomes
• calf thymus DNA

Notes

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