Assessing the In Vitro Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Activity of Moringa oleifera Crude Extract

Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress play a vital role in the pathogenesis of various diseases of the oral cavity including periodontal disease. Phytochemicals present in plants with antioxidant (AO) and anti-inflammatory properties could aid as a therapeutic adjunct in the management of these diseases.

To assess the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Moringa oleifera Lam. (MOL) in an in vitro environment.

Aqueous and ethanolic extracts of M. oleifera Lam. were prepared by maceration. Antioxidant activity was assessed by FRAP, hydroxyl radical scavenging activity, and DPPH radical scavenging assay. Anti-inflammatory activity was assessed by Albumin Denaturation Assay. Experiments were repeated thrice, and mean and standard deviation were calculated.

Both the test substances exhibited significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, and aqueous extracts exhibited higher activity than ethanolic extract.

The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity of M. oleifera Lam. could be further explored for the management of periodontal disease as a local drug delivery system with the extract could be developed.