Work

In vitro analysis of antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects of Scabiosa columbaria L. acetone extracts

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Due to the rising adverse effects of synthetic drugs, there is growing interest in natural therapeutic alternatives. Scabiosa columbaria L., traditionally used for respiratory disorders, skin infections, STIs, and menstrual pain, was investigated to validate its medicinal potential. Whole-plant material was extracted with acetone and analyzed using colorimetric and chromatographic methods. Antimicrobial activity was assessed through the microdilution assay, while antioxidant activity was evaluated using ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays. Cytotoxicity and anti-inflammatory activity were determined using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and nitric oxide (NO) assays, respectively. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) identified iridoid glycosides, phenolic acids, flavonoids, and saponins. The extracts showed moderate phenolic (2.93 mg GAE/g) and flavonoid (1.64 mg QE/g) contents, strong reducing power (12.13 mg TE/g), and moderate antimicrobial activity, especially against Neisseria gonorrhoeae (MIC = 0.6 mg/ml). They also showed dose-dependent cytotoxicity and strong NO inhibition (>60%). The results support the therapeutic potential of S. columbaria , although moderate cytotoxicity highlights the need for further studies on isolated active compounds.

Source: Pharmacia

DOI: 10.3897/pharmacia.72.e163403

Author: Brian Ngobeni

Institution: Central University of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Medicinal Plant Research

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $107