Comparison of antioxidant properties of Cyathula Prostrata Linn and Achyranthes Aspera Linn grown in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Cyathula prostrata Linn (Family:Amaranthaceae) is widely used to stop the bleeding of patients suffering from piles (hemorrhoids). C. prostrata cannot be found universally and it grows only in areas which has wet climatic condition. Achyranthes aspera Linn is also belonging to plant family Amaranthaceae and Sri Lankan Ayurvedic physicians are used this plant as a substitute for C. prostrata. Not like C. prostrata, A. aspera is found on road sides, field boundaries and waste places as a weed throughout the country. As Ayurvedic pharmacodynamics properties are similar in both C. prostrata and A. aspera an attempt was made to evaluate the suitability of using A. aspera as a substitute for C. prostrata in terms of (a) phytochemical screening and (b) in vitro antioxidant activities. Results revealed that saponins, phenolic compounds, flavonoids and alkaloids were present in both plants. Antioxidant activities of ABTS [2,2-azino-bis (3 ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonicacid) diammonium salt], DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) and FRAP (Ferric reducing antioxidant power) are almost similar in both C. prostrata and A. aspera. However, total phenolic content, total flavonoid content and ORAC (Oxygen radical absorbance capacity) activities were higher in C. prostrata hot water extract than that of A. aspera. In conclusion, considering the similarities of phytochemical constituents and antioxidant activities of two plants, A. aspera can be used as a substitute for C. prostrata