Antioxidative Effect and DNA Protecting Property of<i>Moringa oleifera</i>Root Extracts

Abstract

Moringa oleifera root (dehydrated) powder, extracts - aqueous (WE), acetone (AE) and methanol (ME) were analyzed for phytochemical and antioxidant components by various in vitro assays. The root was found to be a good source of phytochemicals viz, glutathione, a-Tocopherol polyphenols, tannins, alkaloids, saponins. All three solvent extracts exhibited a dose dependent antioxidant activity. The antioxidant properties were established on free radicals; its ability to reduce iron and FeSO4-induced microsomal lipid peroxidation. All three extracts were able to protect DNA from oxidative damage. The suggestive antioxidant mechanism of action of Moringa oleifera is by scavenging reactive oxygen species.