The qualitative composition and comparative biological potential of Lunaria annua L. (Brassicaceae) extracts

Abstract

Lunaria annua L. (Brassicaceae) in contrast to its name is a biennial plant native to the Balkans and southwest Asia. This research aimed to evaluate the composition of phenolic compounds (total phenolics, phenolic acids, flavonoids, flavonols, and gallotannins) of methanolic extracts of the aboveground parts (LAA) and roots (LAR) of L. annua, as well as antioxidant, antigenotoxic and anti-inflammatory properties of the extracts in vitro. LAA was richer in all groups of phenolics in comparison to LAR. LAA also had higher antioxidant potential except for the inhibition of lipid peroxidation. LAA and LAR showed inhibition of cyclooxygenase-1 and -2 (COX-1 and -2) enzymatic activities. The anti-inflammatory potential of L. annua extracts was outstanding, especially regarding COX-2 inhibition. Presented findings can lead to the isolation of compounds in L. annua responsible for this plant's remarkable anti-inflammatory properties.