In vitro assessment of the bioactive potential of Artemisia campestris L. fractions growing in Khenchela (Algeria)

Abstract

In order to valorize Algerian medicinal plants, this work aims to characterize quantitatively and qualitatively Artemisia campestris L. fractions, a medicinal plant from the Aures-Algeria area, and investigate its biological activities in vitro. During preliminary phytochemical screening, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, alkaloids, reducing compounds, and coumarins were discovered. Total polyphenols and flavonoids are greater in the n-butanolic fraction than in ethyl acetate and petroleum ether. The resulting antioxidant capability was assessed in vitro using three methods: DPPH free radical scavenging, hydrogen peroxide trapping, and iron reduction. The n-butanolic extract suppresses DPPH oxidation with an IC50 of 2.239±0.32mg/ml, which is comparable to that of standard (1.824±0.97mg/ml). Despite the fact that similar findings were seen in the neutralization of hydrogen peroxide and the iron chelating activity, The anti-inflammatory action was proven in vitro by inhibiting protein denaturation and increasing HRBC membrane stability (Human Red Blood Cells). The n-butanolic fraction was more effective than diclofenac in preventing BSA degradation. It also inhibited membrane hemolysis in human erythrocytes by up to 83%. Activated partial thromboplastin and prothrombin times were used to analyze extrinsic and intrinsic coagulation pathways in A. campestris in order to determine its anticoagulant activity. The n-butanol fraction had the greatest impact on PT and aPTT lengthening, with 75.2s and 351s at 3 mg/ml concentration, respectively. The n-butanolic fraction of the A. campestris aerial part exhibited antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticoagulant activities. As a result, it may be a viable natural resource for mitigating the impact of stress, which causes inflammatory and cardiovascular disorders.