Bio-active marvels of Indigofera aspalathoides: Unveiling antioxidant power and snake venom neutralization abilities through In-vitro exploration

Abstract

Significant health hazards are posed by oxidative stress and snake venom envenomation, especially in areas with poor access to healthcare. In this work, the antioxidant and snake venom-neutralizing qualities of the traditional medicinal herb Indigofera aspalathoides are investigated. The phytochemical composition of the plant's extracts was examined. With remarkable DPPH and nitric oxide scavenging capabilities, the ethyl acetate extract demonstrated strong antioxidant activity. This extract substantially suppressed PLA₂ activity and decreased haemolysis caused by snake venom, according to in vitro tests. This extract successfully suppressed PLA₂ activity and decreased haemolysis brought on by snake venom, according to in vitro tests. A number of bio-active substances that contribute to these effects were found by GC-MS analysis. According to these results, Indigofera aspalathoides has significant antioxidant qualities and the ability to neutralise the venom of the Russell's viper (Daboia russelii), which supports its traditional use in folk medicine and emphasises its potential as a natural therapeutic agent against oxidative stress and snake venom envenomation.