Allium schoenoprasum L., as a natural antioxidant

Abstract

The present study investigated the antioxidative properties of the bulb, leaf and stalk of Allium schoenoprasum L. Activities of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, glutathione peroxidase), quantities of malonyldialdehyde, superoxide and hydroxyl radicals and reduced glutathione and also the content of total flavonoids, chlorophylls a and b, carotenoids, vitamin C and soluble proteins were determined. The results indicate that extracts from all plant organs exhibited antioxidant activity. The highest antioxidant activity was observed in the leaves. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.