RP-HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS Qualitative Profiling, Antioxidant, Anti-Enzymatic, Anti-Inflammatory, and Non-Cytotoxic Properties of Ephedra alata Monjauzeana
Latifa Khattabi, Tarek Boudiar, Mustapha Mounir Bouhenna, Aziez Chettoum, Farid Chebrouk, Henni Chader, Jesús Lozano‐Sánchez, Antonio Segura‐Carretero, Gema Nieto, Salah Akkal
Abstract
An investigation was conducted to study the beneficial effects of Ephedra alata monjauzeana crude extract (EamCE). The chemical profile was determined using RP-HPLC–ESI-QTOF-MS analysis, revealing the presence of twenty-one flavonoids and phenolic acids. A series of antioxidant assays was carried out using ten different methods. The EamCE has demonstrated a significant antioxidant potential, with interesting IC50 values not exceeding 40 µg/mL in almost activities. Likewise, a significant inhibition of key enzymes, involved in some health issues, such as Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, hyperpigmentation, dermatological disorders, gastric/urinary bacterial infections, and obesity, was observed for the first time. The IC50 values ranged from 22.46 to 54.93. The anti-inflammatory and non-cytotoxic activities were assessed by heat-induced hemolysis and cell culture methods, respectively; the EamCE has shown a prominent effect in both tests, notably for the anti-inflammatory effect that was superior to the reference compound “diclofenac” (IC50: 71.03 ± 1.38 > 70.23 ± 0.99 (µg/mL)). According to these results, this plant could be used in a large spectrum as a food supplement, as a natural remedy for various physiological disorders and pathologies; and it might serve as a preventive and health care agent.