Abstract

Assays for Natural Antioxidant

Vichitra Kaushik, Gagandeep Chaudhary, Shoaib Ahmad & Vipin Saini

Cellular damage or oxidative injury arising from free radicals or reactive oxygen species (ROS) now appears the fundamental mechanism underlying a number of disorders. Free radicals are generated through normal metabolism of drugs, environmental chemicals and other xenobiotics as well as endogenous chemicals, especially stress hormones (adrenalin and noradrenalin). Antioxidants are an inhibitor of the process of oxidation, even at relatively small concentration and thus have diverse physiological role in the body. Plant extracts and their constituents as a natural source of antioxidants have been extensively reviewed. In addition to extracts, numerous naturally occurring compounds are useful as antioxidant, ranging from alpha tocopherol and β carotene to plant antioxidants such phenolic compounds. The objective of the investigation performed was to determine the antioxidant properties of herbs that are commonly available and to indicate which of them can become a new source of natural antioxidants for food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.

Published Date: 2015-08-03;