Antioxidant action of Lespedeza capitata extract

Since early human history, natural products have been studied and used to treat diseases. The use of natural products, derived from plants, fungi, and herbs, as therapeutic compounds is considered a significant precursor to modern medicine due to their limited side effects, reliable safety records, and cost effectiveness. Lespedeza capitatais a perennial shrub native to eastern North America and used as animal feed. Folk medicine records from North American natives report the use of the root as an antidote for poisoning and the stems as moxibustion in the treatment of neuralgia and rheumatism (Glyzin et al., 1973, Linard et al., 1978). Flavonoids and tannins are abundant in the plant and are hypothesized for its therapeutic virtues (Linard et al., 1978). Lespedeza capitata, commonly known as roundhead lespedeza, possesses notable antioxidant properties due to its rich content of bioactive compounds, particularly flavonoids, phenolic acids, and other polyphenolic compounds. Key antioxidant compounds include: Flavonoids (Quercetin and kaempferol) are among the most important flavonoids found in Lespedeza capitata. These compounds are well known for their strong antioxidant activity. They help neutralize free radicals—unstable molecules that can damage cells and tissues, leading to oxidative stress. Flavonoids also have anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects, which are often linked to their ability to protect cells from oxidative damage. These antioxidants are crucial for protecting the body from oxidative stress, which can contribute to aging and various diseases, including cardiovascular conditions, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders. Quercetin, a unique bioflavonoid, chemically known as 3, 3′, 4′, 5, 7-pentahydroxyflvanone a major representative of the flavonol subclass, has demonstrated remarkable therapeutic properties and has been beneficial in numerous degenerative diseases by preventing lipid peroxidation (Eity et al., 2024). Quercetin is beneficial in various conditions, such as atherosclerosis and chronic inflammation. The chemical constituents of medical interest in Lespedezacapitata contain flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenes, organic acids and stigmasterols that have been tested for blood sugar-reducing, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-radiation, anti-cancer and anti-tumor effects.