Exploring the Antioxidant Efficacy of Sinopodophyllum hexandrum Rhizomes: Bioactivity and Implications for Therapeutic Use

Abstract

The present study investigates the antioxidant efficacy of hydro methanolic rhizome extracts of Sinopodophyllum hexandrum, a high-value medicinal plant known for its pharmacological significance. The extraction yield of the hydro-methanolic extract was 19%. Antioxidant activity was evaluated through three standard in vitro assays: DPPH free radical scavenging, superoxide anion radical scavenging, and reducing power assay. The hydro methanolic extracts demonstrated substantial radical neutralizing capacity, with IC₅₀ values of 48.34 µg/mL for DPPH and 51.06 µg/mL for superoxide anion scavenging, respectively, indicating potent antioxidant potential. The reducing power of the extract exhibited a dose-dependent increase, suggesting the presence of electron donating phytochemicals capable of reducing ferric ions to ferrous form. These findings not only confirm the strong antioxidant properties of S. hexandrum rhizomes but also support its potential application in therapeutic formulations aimed at oxidative stress related disorders. Furthermore, given the endangered status of this Himalayan species, the study underscores its dual importance in drug discovery and biodiversity preservation, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable utilization and effective conservation strategies.