Original Articles: 2011 Vol: 3 Issue: 4
In vitro evaluation of free radical scavenging potential of Cassia auriculata L.
Abstract
Free radicals are well documented for playing a dual role in our body as both deleterious and beneficial species. Excess production of free radicals or decrease in antioxidant level leads to oxidative stress. It results in pathological manifestations such as atherosclerosis, cancer, inflammatory condition, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease etc. A variety of synthetic medicines employed in the treatment of different diseases that are capable to generate free radicals in body which may cause another disease. In Ayurveda, the plant sources are rich of antioxidants. Phyto-constituents are capable to terminate free radical reactions and prevent our body from oxidative damage with less side effects and compatible to body physiology. Considering the above facts present work deals with evaluation of free radical scavenging potential of Cassia auriculata L plant.the extracts of leaves, stems and fruits were screened invitro, for their possible radical scavenging antioxidant activity by employing 2, 2-diphenyl-1- picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) and nitric oxide (NO) reducing power with ascorbic acid as a standard. The results of the present study revealed that the acetone extract of leaves, stem and fruits can be a potential source of natural antioxidant, which can be applied as new source of Antioxidant Activity Index (AAI)which may complete demand of modern era to use such phytoconstituents or phytomedicines.