ABSTRACT
Free radicals are generated by both enzymatic and non-enzymatic reactions. The main source of free radicals in enzymatic reactions include those involved in phagocytosis, respiratory chain, in prostaglandin synthesis, and in cytochrome p450 system. Current investigation was to examine invitro antioxidant potential of Cassia absus (Linn). MethodsThe aerial parts of Cassia absus (Linn) were powdered and the dry powder was subjected to extraction with various solvents (PE, EA and methanol) through Soxhlet extractor. The aerial parts of different concentrates (pet. ether, ethyl acetate and methanol) of Cassia absus was evaluated for its in-vitro antioxidant potential by hydroxyl radical, FRAP activity taking ascorbate used as standard for the both methods and total flavonoids content was estimated as equivalent to rutin. ResultsThe methanolic concentrates of Cassia absus & standard exhibited antioxidant potential possessing IC50 196 µg/mL & 65 µg/mL (hydroxyl radical) 216 µg/mL & 50 µg/mL (FRAP activity) respectively. Methanolic concentrates of Cassia absus were more efficient in hydroxyl radical, FRAP activity compared EA & PE concentrates. The methanolic and EA concentrates of Cassia absus showed the total flavonoids content (10.22 ± 0.40, 4.03 ± 0.47 respectively). The difference in scavenging potential of the extracts can be due to variation in the percentage of bioactive compound flavonoids present in methanolic extracts. Invitro antioxidant studies show that methanolic concentrates of Cassia absus have better antioxidant activity due to the presence of total flavonoids content. ConclusionsThis result indicates that methanolic concentrates of aerial parts of Cassia absus could serve as natural antioxidant, which may be useful in preventing free radical induced diseases.