Antioxidant Effects of Aqueous Bidens pilosa in Fructose-Fed Rats

This narrative review synthesizes preclinical evidence on the antioxidant potential of simple water extracts from the aerial parts of Bidens pilosa in rodent models exposed to chronic fructose feeding. It examines study designs, aqueous extract preparation, and outcome measures, with emphasis on redox and inflammatory endpoints. Across reports, aqueous B. pilosa reduces lipid peroxidation, restores endogenous antioxidant defenses (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and reduced glutathione (GSH)), and improves histopathology in organs affected by diet-induced stress. These effects coincide with favorable changes in metabolic and inflammatory markers, including attenuation of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) signaling, consistent with broad cytoprotective activity in the liver and kidney. However, the coherence of the evidence is limited by methodological heterogeneity, including variable extract composition and dosing, uneven biomarker panels, and a limited mechanistic depth for aqueous fractions compared with organic extracts. Few studies link quantified phytochemistry with in vivo exposure-response, and pharmacokinetic data remain scarce. Clinical translation is currently absent. Despite these gaps, the translational implications are clear. The fructose-fed model provides a pragmatic, human-relevant platform for screening antioxidant interventions. Focusing on aqueous extracts reflects real-world preparation practices and supports efforts to develop standardized, quality-assured products. Priorities include (i) consistent phytochemical profiling with batch-release markers, (ii) exposure-effect study designs integrating oxidative and inflammatory endpoints, (iii) formulation strategies to enhance bioavailability, and (iv) phased human studies in metabolic-risk cohorts incorporating safety, pharmacokinetic, and target-engagement assessments. In summary, aqueous B. pilosa shows reproducible antioxidant and cytoprotective activity under fructose-induced stress, supporting a structured path toward standardization and early clinical evaluation.