Antioxidant Activity of lyophilized water extract of aerial parts of Astragalus gummifer (Günizer)

Abstract

Studies shown an inverse correlation among age-related illnesses like coronary heart disease and cancer and intake of fruit and vegetable. Given the probable health benefits of natural antioxidants from plants, research on them has increased. The largest genus of the Fabaceae family is Astragalus L. and 224 endemic species were identified in the flora of Turkey. Since Astragalus species are plants grown in many regions of Turkey and used in traditional medicine, it is scientifically important to evaluate the biological activities of these species. In this study, the antioxidant properties of Astragalus gummifer were investigated. The antioxidant capacity of the lyophilized water extract obtained from the aerial parts was evaluated by ferric ions (Fe3+) reduction, KUPRAK, FRAP, DPPH• and ABTS+• scavenging antioxidant methods. This research provides a basis for further phytochemical research on Astragalus gummifer.