Evaluation of Phytochemical Antioxidant Properties and Quantification of Thymoquinone in Nigella sativa L. Seed Extract

Herbal drugs have been considered to be a beneficial remedy for various diseases. They are considered to have fewer side effects compared to modern medicines. In the world of herbal medicine, Nigella sativa L (Ranunculaceae), is one such herb held in high esteem owing to its notable pharmacological efficacies like neuroprotective and antioxidative properties. The present study aims to analyse the polyphenolic content, and anti-oxidant properties, and to quantify Thymoquinone (TQ) in N. sativa extract. Ethanolic extract was screened for possible antioxidant activity against 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), Hydroxyl radical, Superoxide anion radical and Hydrogen peroxide. Further, quantification of TQ was performed by HPLC. The results confirmed that N. sativa extract possesses positive antioxidant properties, which can be attributed to the presence of bioactive compounds. Thus, this extract can be considered as an effective agent with high therapeutic value in preventing cellular damage. Exploration of these chemicals might lead to novel drug discovery which might be an effective remedy for neurological disorder.