Antioxidant properties of Baccharis trimera in the neutrophils of Fisher rats

Ethnopharmacological relevance: Baccharis trimera (Less.) (Asteraceae) is a native plant of Brazil. Also known as carqueja, it has been popularly used to treat liver diseases, diabetes, as well as digestive disorders. Other studies have described the hepatoprotective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of the species. Aim of the study: The aim of the present study was to investigate the antioxidant properties of Baccharis trimera in the neutrophils of Fisher rats in both in vitro and in vivo experimental models. Material and methods: In the in vitro assay, the neutrophils of male rats were isolated and incubated with Baccharis trimera extract at concentrations of 0.5, 5.0 and 50.0 mu g/mL. In the in vivo assay, male rats were first treated with crude extract 600 mg/kg body weight of Baccharis trimera or with 50 mg/kg body weight of quercetin (reference substance) and then treated with 835 mg/kg of acetaminophen (APAP) after 24 h. Results: The hydroethanolic extract of Baccharis trimera reduced the release of reactive oxygen species in the neutrophils in both the in vitro and in vivo experimental models. Therefore confirming its antioxidant effect. Conclusion: The results of this study confirm the antioxidant effect of Baccharis trimera. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.