PREPARATION OF ETHANOLIC EXTRACT OF RED CLOVER AND ITS FREE RADICAL SCAVENGING ACTIVITY. AN IN VITRO STUDY

Authors: George FRANKLIN, Arvina RAJASEKAR

Abstract:

Introduction: Red clover is a herbaceous perennial plant proved to be a blood cleanser, expectorant, culterative and sedative. The aim of this study was to assess the free radical scavenging activity of ethanolic extract of red clover. Materials and Methods: The study was performed in vitro, in a laboratory setting. An aqueous extract of red clover was prepared, centrifuged and tested for its antioxidant activity via the DPPH assay. The obtained values were compared with that of a known standard.  Results and discussion: The extract was initially tested with 10 μL, the amount being subsequently increased to 20 μL, 30 μL, 40 μL and 50 μL. Based on the DPPH assay, as the concentration of the extract solution increased by 10 μL at each test, its antioxidant activity also increased.  Conclusions: The ethanolic extract of red clover was found to be a potent antioxidant agent.

Keywords:
  • antioxidant
  • free radicals
  • REACTIVE OXYGEN SPECIES
  • red clover