Radical scavenging activity of various fractions of Cephalotaxus sinensis (Rehd et Wile) Li

Cephalotaxus sinensis (Rehd et Wile) Li, belongs to family Cephalotaxaceae, common in China, is an indigenous medicinal plant due to its antiascariasis, antiinflammation, anticough and antidyspepsia activity. The overindulgence of free radicals has been concerned in the development of chronic diseases and play an imperative role in the development of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer´s and Parkinson´s diseases. Various fractions of this plant were evaluated for their radical scavenging activity by the DPPHldr and reducing power activity assays. Also, the Folin-Ciocalteu method was used to determine the total phenolic content. The results of both methods revealed that Cephalotaxus. sinensis possesses potent antioxidant activity. The polyphenolic content and antioxidant activities of the different fractions tested decreased in the order of EaF > BtF > CfF > WtF > PtF. The radical scavenging activity of the ethyl acetate fraction higher than BHT and slightly lower than Vit-C. A positive linear correlation between antioxidant activity and contents of polyphenol was established. This information shows that ethyl acetate fraction of C. sinensis can be used as antioxidant in medicinal preparations.