Phytochemical characterization and in vitro antioxidant analysis of Lepidium sativum seeds

Abstract

This research was conducted to examine the phytochemical profile of the ethanolic extract of Lepidium sativum L. (garden cress) seeds and to assess the antioxidant activity of the extract with special focus on identification of bioactive compounds that mediate its medicinal effect. Antioxidant activity of Ethanolic seed extract of Lepidium sativum was evaluated through the use of 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay and the ferric ion (Fe³⁺) reducing power assay. The identification and characterization of the constituent bioactive in the extract was done by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. The seed extract dissolved in ethanol had a significant antioxidant effect, indicated by the ability of the solution to scavenge DPPH radical and the ability to reduce ferric. The GC-MS profiling detected the existence of a few bioactive compounds such as phenolic compounds flavonoids and vitamins which are known to help in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. All of the identified phytochemicals together promote the capacity of Lepidium sativum seeds to counter oxidative stress and cellular damages. The results affirm that the Lepidium sativum ethanol seed extract is a nutritious source of antioxidant phytochemicals. The traditional medicinal application of garden cress is justified by the observed antioxidant activity and the profile of bioactive compounds that have been identified and that have the potential to make this plant a natural therapeutic measure against oxidative stress-linked diseases.