Free radical scavenging effects of the hydro-alcoholic extract of shilajit

ABSTRACT

Shilajit [Botanical/Scientific name Asphaltum] is a bituminous substance found in the lower Himalayan mountains. It is a compact mass of vegetable organic matter composed of a dark gummy matrix thought to be largely the result of humification of the plant Styrax officinalis Linn, and/or Euphorbia royleana Boiss. Shilajit is used as aphrodisiac, rejuvenator, alterative tonic, respiratory stimulant, internal antiseptic, diuretic and lithotriptic. In the current study, we investigated the free radical scavenging effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Shilajit, employing various established in vitro systems, such as the p-carotene-linoleate model system, 1, l-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl [DPPH] and nitric oxide radical scavenging activity. Shilajit showed noticeable inhibitory activity toward p-carotene-linoleate model system, inhibition of DPPH radical and also possessed nitric oxide scavenging activity. The data obtained in the in vitro models clearly establish the free radical scavenging effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Shilajit