In vitro antioxidant activity and tannin content of Echium italicum L.

Abstract

Echium italicum L., Pale Viper's-bugloss, Italian Viper's bugloss (Boraginaceae) is a perennial, shrub-like plant, inhabiting thermophilic, sandy grounds of the submediteranian area [1]. Its leaves are used as seasoning; apiarists use the plant to make uniquely flavoured honey [2]; flowers are used as an „anti-stress“, tranquilizer, and energizer drink, fighting common cold and bronchitis [3]. It is also being used for snake bites and as an aphrodisiac [4]. Roots of E. italicum has long been used for its strong anti-inflammatory and wound healing effects [5]. In previous investigations, total phenolic and flavonoid content of this plant were reported, as well as reducing power and chelating ability [6]. In order to complete the information on its antioxidant properties, four assays were carried out using methanolic extract of aerial parts of the plant: total antioxidant capacity, DPPH free radical scavenging, the inhibitory activity toward lipid peroxidation, hydroxyl radical scavenging activity. Results are given table below as mean±SD. Contents of condensed tannins and gallotannins were found to be 21.49 and 28.85mg gallic acid/g, respectively. Total antioxidant capacity was 112,92µg ascorbic acid/g.