In vitro Study on the Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Capabilities of Borassus flabellifer Seedcoat

Abstract

Aims Borassus flabellifer, commonly known as Palmyra palm, Ice apple, Nungu (Tamil) is prevalent in South Asia. This study is focused on determining the anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of ethanolic extract isolated from the seedcoat of Borassus flabellifer. Materials and Methods The ethanolic extract of Borassus flabellifer seedcoat was prepared by cold extraction technique using sterile filter paper. The in vitro antioxidant activity was assessed using 2,2-Diphenylpicrylhydrazyl [DPPH] assay, Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power [FRAP] assay, Hydrogen peroxide assay and Catalase assay. The in vitro anti-inflammatory activity was determined using the Membrane stabilization method, Protein denaturation method and inhibition of albumin denaturation method. Results DPPH assay revealed stronger anti-oxidant activity than the standard, Butylated Hydroxy Toluene [BHT]. FRAP assay exhibited limited anti-oxidant activity but less than the standard, Ferrous sulfate [FeSO4]. Hydrogen peroxide assay demonstrated good anti-oxidant activity but not more than the standard, Ascorbic acid [Vitamin C]. Catalase assay proved the presence of significant antioxidant activity. There was limited anti-inflammatory activity observed in all three methods employed. Diclofenac was used as standard. Conclusion This study concludes that the seedcoat of Borassus flabellifer has strong anti-oxidant activity and limited anti-inflammatory activity. Traditional herbal medicine has been used since ancient times. Hence, it can be used for treating a variety of human ailments since it yields less serious side effects as well as cheaper.

Keywords: Anti-oxidant; Anti-inflammatory; Borassus flabellifer; Ethanolic extract; Ice apple; Seed coat