Phytochemical characterization of Zingiber striolatum flower bud and its anti-inflammatory effects in vitro and in vivo.

As a common vegetable, Zingiber striolatum flower bud is used in ethnic medicine to treat colitis. This study analyzed the phytochemical characterization of Z. striolatum flower bud ethanol extract (EE) and water extract (WE) and first assessed the anti-inflammatory effects of Z. striolatum flower bud EE in vitro and in vivo. Z. striolatum flower bud EE and WE were rich in phenolic and flavonoid compounds, and a total of 46 constituents were putatively identified, including 9 phenols and 15 flavonoids. In LPS-mediated RAW264.7 macrophages, EE inhibited ROS overproduction and activation of MAPK and NF-κB pathways, which in turn reduced the generation of inflammatory mediators (PGE2 and NO) and cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6). Z. striolatum flower bud EE ameliorated pathological damage, decreased the DAI, and increased colon length in mice with DSS-induced colitis. In addition, EE markedly reduced inflammatory cytokine levels and decreased oxidative stress levels by increasing CAT and SOD activities and reducing MDA levels in serum and tissue fluid. Hence, Z. striolatum flower bud EE has significant potential for use in functional foods.