Abstract

The aim of the present study was to examine the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of three Moroccan ethno medicinally important plants. The antioxidant activity was performed using β-Carotene bleaching assay, DPPH, ABTS and Ferric reducing assays. In vitro anti-inflammatory assays were also studied through the evaluation of membrane stabilization potential and inhibition of protein denaturation. Results revealed that Lawsonia inermis L leaves extract had significantly higher phenolics-content (5.23 g GAE/100g DW) and exhibited the highest antioxidant activity based on DPPH (IC50 = 18.26 µg/mL). The highest flavonoids content was found in Rosa damascena. L flower (3.97 RE/100g DW) which shows the highest antioxidant activity based on ABTS (30.39 mmol TE/100g DW), FRAP (38.54 mmol TE/100gDW) and β-Carotene bleaching assay (IC50 = 56.33 µg/mL). Concerning the anti-inflammatory potency, the highest membrane stabilization effect was found in Rosa damascena. L flower (IC50 = 125.02 µg/mL) and the highest anti-denaturation of protein effect was found in Lawsonia inermis L leaves extract (IC50 = 103.21 µg/mL). Consequently, to conclude flavonoids and related phenolics present in studied plant materials may possibly be responsible for the important anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.

Key words: Cuminum cyminum; Lawsonia inermis L.; Rosa damascena; antioxidant; anti‐inflammatory.