Abstract

This study represents the first report on antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities of different extracts of Nitraria schoberi L. (Nitrariaceae). Antioxidant phytochemicals may play a protective role in human, counteracting free radical damage and oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to assess the free radical scavenging and antioxidant capacities of N. schoberi fruits, leaves and roots by ad hoc in vitro assays. Aqueous, chloroform and methanol extracts were analyzed. Our results showed that, in general, the maximum free radical and antioxidant activities were measured in the methanol extracts, decreasing from fruits to leaves and roots, thus suggesting that N. schoberi may be considered a novel and effective source of healthy antioxidants and bioactive phytochemicals. © 2013, © 2013 Har Krishan Bhalla & Sons.