Effect of Vitex trifolia linn and Solanum nigrum Linn on oxidative stress and inflammation

Abstract

Context: Phytochemical investigations of hydroalcoholic extracts of Vitex trifolia Linn and Solanum nigrum Linn suggest the presence of flavonoids, terpenoids, and steroids and have been traditionally claimed to be useful in the treatment of inflammation, fever, edema, and tuberculosis. Aim: In the present study, hydroalcoholic extract of the plants was evaluated for its free radical scavenging capacity against hydroxyl, hydrogen peroxide, and nitric oxide radicals, and it's in vitro anti-inflammatory potential. Materials and Methods: Hydroalcoholic extracts of V. trifolia L. and S. nigrum L. were studied at different concentrations for their scavenging ability against free radicals and their ability to protect against hypotonic solution-induced hemolysis on red blood cells and inhibition of protein denaturation. For evaluation, different in vitro assays were used. Results: Results show that the plant extract possesses free radical scavenging capacity, membrane stabilizing capacity, and protein denaturation inhibition capacity which could be correlated to the traditional claim of the plant being used in the treatment of inflammation. Conclusion: The study supports the traditional claim and the prior in vivo studies carried out. It also helps in understanding the possible mode of action for aforesaid activity.