Effect of Strychnos nux vomica alcohol extract on lipid peroxidation in rat liver

Abstract

This report investigates the antioxidant properties of the purified Strychnos nux vomica L. seed extract for protection against non-enzymatic formation of lipid peroxides and on reduced glutathione (GSH) levels in rat liver homogenate. Results were compared with the natural antioxidant vitamin E. For the first time it could be reported that this drug protects against cumene hydroperoxide (CHP) induced lipid peroxidation in a dose dependent manner. It also inhibits the process of the lipid peroxidation, once induced. The drug significantly maintains the hepatic content of glutathione in a dose and time dependent manner, even in the presence of the above toxin (CHP). Thus it appears that S. nux vomica is a potent antioxidant and the mechanism of action could be through the scavenging of free radicals.