In vitro scavenging free radical and antioxidant effects of extracts from Myrtus communis Linn. leaves

[Objective] The effects of nonessential oil extracts of Myrtus communis Linn.leaves on scavenging free radical and antioxidant role were studied in order to provide an experimental basis for its further development.[Method] Water,methanol and ethyl acetate extraction method were used to extract non-oil components from Myrtus communis Linn.leaves,and then radical scavenging activity and antioxidant role of these extracts were investigated using four chemiluminescence systems and two colorimetric systems.[Result] Extracts of Myrtus communis Linn.leaves not only effectively scavenged O-·2,·O H,DPPH· and ONOO-,but reduced or prevented DNA oxidative damage caused by ·OH and inhibited lipided pexoxidation.[Conclusion] Extracts of Myrtus communis Linn.are effective,multifunctional natural antioxidants and radical scavenger,and are the natural products worthy of further exploitation and utilization.