Antioxidant Properties of Murraya koenigii

Murraya koenigii (curry) is a plant found in the tropical regions of western Africa. The phytochemical analysis and the antioxidant activities of Murraya koenigii were carried out as well as the acute toxicity of the plant. The result of the acute toxicity showed that, the plant had LD50 of 4000mg/kg body weight, indicating non toxicity of the plant when consumed. The plant was found to contain carbohydrates, proteins, saponin, alkaloids, flavonoids and steroids. The lipid peroxidation scarvenging activity of the ethanol extract was assayed using rat liver homogenate. The extract of the plant showed a dose-dependent activity with sodium nitriprusside, carbon tetrachloride and ferrous sulphate induced lipid peroxidation. The antioxidant activities of the plant were significant when compared with ascorbic acid. It was evident that Murraya koenigii possess some antioxidant properties and its consumption can reduce the effects caused by oxidative stress.