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