Neuroprotective effects of Moringa oleifera leaf extracts

Abstract

This study was performed to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of Moringa oleifera leaf. The polyphenols myricetin and kaempferol were detected in M. oleifera leaf at 5.44 and 1,157.13 mg/100 g, respectively. M. oleifera leaf ethanol extract (MOLE) reduced oxidative stress (%) more than vitamin C did (90.26%) at 100 and 200 μg/mL (p<0.05). MOLE increased cell viability (%) (p<0.05) and similarly to vitamin C (88.36%). Additionally, the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release into the medium (%) induced by ascorbic acid (vitamin C) was comparable to that of MOLE at 100 and 200 μg/mL (p>0.05). The antioxidant activities of M. oleifera leaf water extract (MOLW) and MOLE were measured. MOLE showed higher 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) radical scavenging (%) and malondialdehyde inhibition (%) than MOLW did (p<0.05). In conclusion, M. oleifera leaf extracts, especially MOLE could be potential natural neuroprotective agents to substitute synthetic chemicals.