Abstract

Artemisia campestris is a medicinal plant species endemic to Algeria, particularly abundant in the southern regions and central Sahara. Its long-standing use in traditional medicine has recently gained scientific attention, prompting further investigation into its bioactive potential. This study focuses on the phytochemical composition and biological activity of its hydromethanolic extract, with particular emphasis on its ability to inhibit neural enzymes associated with insect physiology.
Preliminary screening revealed a diverse array of secondary metabolites, including tannins (catechic and gallic), flavonoids, quinones, glucosides, terpenoids, saponins, coumarins, and alkaloids; anthocyanins were not detected. Quantitative analysis confirmed high concentrations of total phenolics (80.91 ± 1.58 mg GAE/g), flavonoids (60.45 ± 2.02 mg RE/g), phenolic acids (4.24 ± 0.38 mg CAE/g), and condensed tannins (2.26 ± 0.29 mg CE/g). Enzyme inhibition assays were performed using Ellman’s method, and IC₅₀ values were calculated by nonlinear regression analysis based on dose-response curves. The extract demonstrated significant activity against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyryl esterase (BuE), with IC₅₀ values of 13.79 ± 0.79 µg/ml and 8.34 ± 0.58 µg/ml, respectively, based on five independent replicates (n = 5). These results were benchmarked against galantamine, a reference inhibitor, which exhibited IC₅₀ values of 1.50 ± 0.12 µg/ml under the same conditions. Although galantamine showed superior potency, the relatively low IC₅₀ values of A. campestris extract highlight its promising inhibitory potential and support its relevance as a natural alternative.
The findings suggest that A. campestris may offer a natural and environmentally friendly approach to pest control, due to its ability to disrupt insect neural function. Further research is needed to validate its efficacy and safety in real-world applications.