Evaluation of the in vivo Antioxidant and Antihemolytic Potential of Peganum harmala Methanolic Seed Extract

Abstract

Background: Peganum harmala L. is a medicinal herbal plant widely used in traditional medicine in various countries, especially in Algeria. This study aimed to carry out the extraction of P. harmala seeds and to evaluate the antioxidant and antihemolytic potentials of 100 mg/kg methanol extract in plasma, blood, and liver of Swiss albino mice. Methods: The antioxidant capacity of the plasma samples was performed using free radical scavenging (DPPH assay) and reducing power activities. However, the antihemolytic effect of methanol extract was measured in the blood induced by tBH. The biomarkers of oxidative stress were evaluated in liver tissues by measuring the activity of catalase enzyme (CAT), and the level of GSH and MDA products. Results: The results showed that 100 mg/kg of MOHE did not show any significant changes in plasma antioxidant capacity by DPPH assay when we compared with a control group (32.70 ± 4,45 %), however, the reducing power capacity of plasma is remarkable in methanolic extract and VitC groups. Fifty percent of red blood cell lysis was calculated (HT50) for measuring the antihemolytic effect, the results showed that MOHEhad a protective effect against RBC hemolysis with HT50 = 78,51 ± 11,32 min. In addition, MOHE increases the activity of CAT, GSH levels whereas it decreases the MDA levels in the homogenate liver, which demonstrates that MOHE inhibits the lipid peroxidation in the liver. Conclusion: This plant has a strong pharmacological power due to its secondary metabolite. However, its uses for therapeutic purposes is not without danger and exposes the risk of intoxication.