Antioxidant Properties of Polyalthia longifolia

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Polyalthia longifolia is a plant found in the tropical areas of the world. The plant is used as an ornamental tree. The seeds of the plant were investigated for its toxicity, phytochemicals and antioxidant activities. The acute toxicity studies of the plant revealed LD 50 of 400mg/kg which indicates that the seeds of the plant are non-toxic and save for human consumption. The plant was found to contain alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, carbohydrates, fats and oils, tannins, steroids and terpenoids. The antioxidant activities of the ethanol extract of the seeds were assayed using rat liver homogenate. Nitric oxide, ferrous sulphate and carbon tetrachloride-induced lipid scavenging activities carried out showed that there were inhibition in the formation of free radicals; indicating a possible antioxidant property. The use of the plant on humans can alleviate the incidence of oxidative stress