Exploring Artemisia judaica subsp. sahariensis (L. Chevall.) Maire, from Tamanrasset: Antioxidant and Antispasmodic Properties of an Endemic Species of the Algerian Sahara
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Abstract
Artemisia judaica L., a plant belonging to the Asteraceae family, is also known as Judean Wormwood. It is widespread in the eastern Algerian Sahara, specifically in the Tamanrasset region, where it grows in specific locations. This investigation aimed to identify its chemical composition, assess toxicity, and test its antioxidant and antispasmodic effects. Phytochemical screening demonstrated the presence of several phytochemicals, including glucosides, saponins, quinones, tannins, sterols, triterpenes, polyphenols and flavonoids. Specific metabolites such as coumarins, anthocyanins, alkaloids, and mucilages were absent. The total polyphenol and flavonoid contents were determined to be 256.95 ± 7.11 mg GAE/g DW and 19.12 ± 0.57 mg QE/g DW, respectively, indicating that the plant is particularly abundant in polyphenols compared to other Artemisia species. Antioxidant activity showed a higher rate of DPPH radical inhibition than ascorbic acid. The assessment of acute toxicity and LD50 at 1000 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg in rabbits showed no mortality or occurrence of specific clinical signs, indicating the non-toxic effect of the plant. The investigation of antispasmodic activity revealed a dose-dependent response. The aqueous extract administered at a dosage of 500 mg/kg demonstrated efficacy comparable to the reference control SPASMODYL®, with a spasms inhibition rate of 97.25%. However, the positive control results were not statistically significant (p≤0.05). Further research is needed to explore the potentially unknown biological properties of this plant.
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