Antioxidant Properties of Rajgira (Amaranthus paniculatus) Leaves and Potential Synergy in Chemoprevention

In recent years there has been a substantial increase in the use of functional foods for disease control. Fruitsand vegetables produce phytochemicals such as flavonoids and antioxidants which can lower oxidative stress andreduce the risk of chronic ailments like cancer. The aim of the present study was to investigate the antioxidantcapacity and the possible protective effects of Amaranthus paniculatus leaves on the antioxidant defense systemin Ehrlich’s ascites carcinoma (EAC) -treated mice. Oral administration of the leaf extract at different dosescaused a significant decrease in tumor volume, viable cell count and tumor weight and elevated the life span ofEAC bearing mice. It also showed an improved antioxidant potential as evidenced by a significant increase inthe cellular antioxidant defense system such as catalase, superoxide dismutase and reduced glutathione and alsosignificantly reduced the levels of TBARS. The levels of RBC, hemoglobin and lymphocyte count were alteredin EAC bearing mice and were reverted back to near normal levels after the treatment with the leaf extracts.Their adequate content of total phenolics and flavonoids, DPPH scavenging activity which further suggests thatthe extracts exert a significant protection against oxidative stress conditions.