Antioxidant Activity and Irritation Test of Extracts Obtained from Angelica dahurica

In this study, we assessed the free radical scavenging and xanthine oxidase inhibitory activities of extracts isolated from the dried roots and stems (including leaves) of Angelica dahurica. The irritation response from these extracts was also assessed to determine potential cosmetic use. Both sources of A. dahurica extracts exhibited radical scavenging properties to different extents. The free radical scavenging potency (EC 50 ) of the stems (including leaves) of A. dahurica was 243.33 ㎍/mL, which is significantly lower (p＜0.01) than that observed of the roots (1,161.79 ㎍/mL). The inhibition values (EC 50 ) of xanthine oxidase were as follows: 435.19 ㎍/mL (roots) and 434.66 ㎍/mL (stems). We noted no significant differences between the two plant parts with regard to ability to inhibit xanthine oxidase activity. After the application of A. dahurica extracts to rabbits for skin and eye irritation tests, no negative effects were observed; therefore, the extracts are considered to be non-irritating to the skin and eye.