Deciphering the Antioxidant Potency and Bioactive Composition of Acanthus spinosus: A Quantitative and Qualitative Assessment

Introduction : 

Acanthus spinosus is a prominent medicinal plant widely distributed across the Mediterranean region, traditionally utilized for its diverse therapeutic properties, most notably its anti-inflammatory effects. Despite its ethnobotanical significance, a comprehensive evaluation of its biochemical profile is essential for modern pharmacological applications. This study aims to characterize the fatty acid and unsaponifiable fractions and evaluate the antioxidant capacity of various plant extracts.

Methods : 

Preliminary phytochemical screening was conducted to identify key secondary metabolites, including tocopherols, sterols, and terpenes. The total phenolic content (TPC) of the extracts was quantified using the Folin-Ciocalteu spectrophotometric method. The antioxidant potential was rigorously assessed through two complementary assays: the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay and the Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assay.

Results : 

Qualitative analysis confirmed the presence of sterols, tocopherols, and terpenes. Quantitative results indicated that the ethanolic extracts of Acanthus spinosus are particularly rich in polyphenolic compounds. Among the tested fractions, the ethanolic extract exhibited the most potent antioxidant activity, demonstrating a significant DPPH radical scavenging capacity with an IC50 value of 0.0286 mg/ml. These findings were further corroborated by the FRAP assay, which revealed a high affinity for reducing Fe3+ ions, reinforcing the significant antioxidant potential of the extracts.

Conclusions : 

This research highlights Acanthus spinosus as a rich source of bioactive polyphenols with robust antioxidant properties. The findings suggest that these extracts could serve as effective natural agents in the prevention of oxidative stress-related diseases and offer a foundation for future development in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries.