Protective effect of (-) α-bisabolol on markers of oxidative stress in erythrocytes subjected to oxidative stress

Abstract

(-)-α-bisabolol is a sesquiterpene alcohol found as a major component of essential oil of chamomile (Matricaria recutita L., Chamomilla recutita L., Matricaria chamomilla L.; Family Asteraceae). Chamomile, one of the most ancient and widely recognized herbs to mankind, has been used traditionally for centuries as an anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, carminative, mild astringent and healing medicine. It is also known to be very helpful as an external agent for encouraging the rapid healing of ulcers and burns without infection, as well as persistent skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis. Since clinical trials and human studies are limited, we have investigated the effect of (-)-α-bisabolol on markers of oxidative stress in human erythrocytes by incubating with hydrogen peroxide (2mM) and tert-butyl hydroperoxide (10 µM). Subjecting erythrocyte to oxidative stress caused a significant alteration in reduced glutathione GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration as well as superoxide dismutase and catalase activity compare to control. Presence of (-)-α-bisabolol as low as 0.1µM in incubation medium protected the erythrocytes from oxidative stress and helps to maintain the basal level of GSH and MDA. The activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase were also restored in a concentration-dependent manner (0.01-100µM). The effect was also compared with L-Ascorbic acid, quercetin and BHT. Our findings provide evidence for the protection of oxidative stress in erythrocytes by (-)-α-bisabolol that could be considered for further studies.