EVALUATING THE POTENTIAL OF BACOPA MONNIERI ITS ANTIOXIDANT PROPERTIES AND RENOPROTECTIVE EFFECTS

Abstract

Bacopa Monnieri, a renowned medicinal plant, has captured scientific interest due to its multifaceted health benefits. In this study, we meticulously examine the antioxidant potential and renoprotective effects of Bacopa Monnieri using a combination of in vitro and in vivo approaches. The in vitro evaluation through DPPH radical scavenging assays revealed Bacopa Monnieri's remarkable ability to neutralize free radicals, even surpassing the performance of the well-known antioxidant, ascorbic acid. This potent antioxidant activity can be attributed to the presence of bioactive compounds, including bacosides, flavonoids, and polyphenols.  In in vivo studies, we investigated the effects of Bacopa Monnieri on azathioprine-induced oxidative stress in rats. Notably, the plant exhibited a capacity to restore and enhance superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, a critical enzyme in the body's antioxidant defense system. Azathioprine administration had led to a significant reduction in SOD levels, signifying increased oxidative stress. However, post-treatment with Bacopa Monnieri, particularly at higher doses, not only restored SOD activity but also exceeded normal levels. This suggests that Bacopa Monnieri possesses the potential to reinforce endogenous antioxidant mechanisms. Moreover, our findings unveiled Bacopa Monnieri's renoprotective effects. The plant effectively mitigated azathioprine-induced renal damage, as evidenced by reduced serum creatinine and urea levels. These renoprotective effects could be attributed to its potent antioxidant properties, anti-inflammatory potential, and possible tissue regenerative capabilities. In summary, this comprehensive study illuminates the extraordinary antioxidant capacity and renoprotective potential of Bacopa Monnieri. These findings hold great promise for future therapeutic applications, particularly in conditions associated with oxidative stress and renal dysfunction. h benefits offered by Bacopa Monnieri.