Evaluation of the Antioxidant Activity of Leaves of Chamaecostus cuspidatus Plant by in vitro Antioxidant Assays

Background

Chamaecostus cuspidatus, also known as the insulin plant, has been traditionally used for diabetes management in various medicinal systems. This plant has demonstrated a variety of medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-diabetic effects. This study aims to evaluate its antioxidant potential, which is crucial for managing oxidative stress, a key factor in the pathogenesis of diabetes and other chronic diseases.

Objectives

To investigate the antioxidant activity of Chamaecostus cuspidatus using a range of in vitro assays and to assess its potential as a natural antioxidant source for therapeutic applications.

Materials and Methods

Plant Material: Fresh leaves of Chamaecostus cuspidatus were collected, dried, powdered, and extracted using a Soxhlet method with methanol as the solvent. Antioxidant Assays: The following assays were performed to assess antioxidant activity: DPPH Radical Scavenging Assay, Hydrogen Peroxide (H₂O₂) Scavenging Assay, Phosphomolybdenum Assay, Nitric Oxide Scavenging Activity, Reducing Power Assay, Superoxide Radical Scavenging Assay, Metal Chelating Assay, Hydroxyl Radical Scavenging Assay.

Results

The extract exhibited significant antioxidant activity across various assays. DPPH Assay: IC₅₀ value of 190.4 µg, indicating strong free radical inhibition but less potent than the standard. Hydrogen Peroxide Scavenging Assay: IC₅₀ value of 509 µg, indicating superior antioxidant capacity compared to the standard. Phosphomolybdenum Assay: Dose-dependent increase in reducing power. Nitric Oxide Scavenging Activity: IC₅₀ value of 2.3 mg, lower efficacy compared to ascorbic acid. Reducing Power Assay: Demonstrated dose-dependent reducing potential, though lower than the standard. Superoxide Radical Scavenging Assay: IC₅₀ of 37 µg, better than the standard. Metal Chelating Activity: Effective in binding ferrous ions, similar to the standard. Hydroxyl Radical Scavenging Assay: IC₅₀ of 413 µg, moderate scavenging potential.

Conclusion

Chamaecostus cuspidatus demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, especially in scavenging hydrogen peroxide, superoxide, and hydroxyl radicals. Its efficacy in these assays supports its traditional use in managing oxidative stress-related conditions, such as diabetes and neurodegenerative diseases. The plant’s antioxidant potential positions it as a valuable candidate for developing natural therapeutic agents for oxidative stress management.