Phytochemical analysis and antioxidant activity of aqueous fraction of Moringa oleifera Leaves

Abstract

Wound healing process could be disrupted by oxidative stress due to presence of reactive oxygen specie (ROS) around the wound. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the antioxidant properties of bioactive aqueous fraction of M. oleifera for potential wound healing application. Phytochemical screening was conducted using established methods to identify phytochemical composition of the aqueous fraction. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using standard methods of DPPH, phosphomolybdenum, FRAP, nitric oxide and hydrogen peroxide scavenging assays. Phytochemical compounds such as tannins, flavonoids, saponins, glycosides, alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, saponin glycosides, steroids and volatile oils were found in the bioactive aqueous fraction. The antioxidant assay results showed high antioxidant capacity of aqueous fraction when compared to positive control (standard ascorbic acid). We may therefore conclude that, the capacity to modulate production and quenching of free radicals may contribute significantly to the demonstrated ability of aqueous fraction of M. oleifera to possess pharmacological activity. Keywords: Moringa oleifera, phytochemical compounds, free radicals, antioxidants,