Evaluation of the free-radical scavenging and antioxidant activities of Chilauni, Schima wallichii Korth in vitro

AIM: Free radicals are an outcome of various metabolic activities and their excess production leads to many diseases. Therefore, it is necessary to neutralize excess free radicals. MATERIALS & METHODS: Free-radical scavenging activity of various extracts of Schima wallichii was evaluated using standard protocols. RESULTS: Chloroform, ethanol and aqueous extracts of S. wallichii scavenged DPPH, hydroxyl, superoxide, nitric oxide and ABTS free radicals and increased ferric-reducing antioxidant potential in a concentration-dependent manner. A total of 1000 μg/ml of all the extracts and ethanol extract showed highest total flavonoids and phenol contents, respectively. CONCLUSION: The different extracts of S. wallichii scavenged different free radicals efficiently due to the presence of flavonoids and polyphenols and may be helpful in free radical-induced diseases.