COMPARATIVE ANTIOXIDANT POTENTIAL OF SELECTED MEDICINAL PLANTS THROUGH FREE RADICALS SCAVENGING ACTIVITY

Abstract

This research investigates the free radical scavenging properties of five medicinal plant species—Adhatoda vasica, Holarrhena antidysenterica, Gloriosa superba, Vitex negundo, and Vinca rosea—and examines the relationship between their phytochemical profiles and antioxidant potential. The antioxidant activities of plant extracts were quantitatively assessed using the DPPH assay, and major bioactive constituents were identified. Among the evaluated species, Adhatoda vasica and Vinca rosea demonstrated the strongest radical scavenging effects, markedly surpassing the others. The outcomes indicate that these plants could be promising natural sources of antioxidants, with potential roles in combating oxidative stress—a contributing factor in many chronic diseases. This highlights their relevance for the development of innovative antioxidant-based interventions and emphasizes the need for continued exploration of their bioactive compounds for use in integrative and preventive health practices.