Evaluation of the free-radical scavenging and antioxidant activities of Chilauni, Schima wallichii Korth in vitro.

AIM: Free radicals are an outcome of various metabolic activities and their excess production leads to many diseases. Therefore, it is necessary to neutralize excess free radicals.

MATERIALS &

METHODS

Free-radical scavenging activity of various extracts of Schima wallichii was evaluated using standard protocols.

RESULTS

Chloroform, ethanol and aqueous extracts of S. wallichii scavenged DPPH, hydroxyl, superoxide, nitric oxide and ABTS free radicals and increased ferric-reducing antioxidant potential in a concentration-dependent manner. A total of 1000 μg/ml of all the extracts and ethanol extract showed highest total flavonoids and phenol contents, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The different extracts of S. wallichii scavenged different free radicals efficiently due to the presence of flavonoids and polyphenols and may be helpful in free radical-induced diseases.