Umar Shah, Waqas N Baba, Mudasir Ahmad, Asima Shah, Adil Gani, F A Masoodi, Asir Gani, Bilal Ahmad Ashwar
A first attempt was made for the GC-MS profiling, anti-oxidant analysis cum DNA protective properties and anti-proliferative activities of a wild aquatic plant, Nymphaea mexicana found in Himalayan region and consumed for its peculiar taste and aroma. Three different solvents were used viz; methanol, ethanol and water. Extracts showed a dose dependent relationship with highest antioxidant potential in ethanol, however highest TPC was found in methanol (0.110 ± 0.05 GAE/g) as compared to ethanol (0.095 ± 0.05 GAE/g) and water (0.073 ± 0.05 GAE/g). Plant extracts showed efficient DNA damage protection (at concentrations > 30 μg/mL) and maximum efficiency against DNA damage was seen in ethanolic solvent. The antiproliferative activities of the plant were noteworthy at a concentration of 20 mg/ mL but were significantly lower than standard (5-flourouracil). The plant is known for its specific taste and aroma hence GC-MS profiling were carried out and relative percentage of important compounds found was determined. GC-MS analysis confirmed some major aroma rendering compounds along with some major anti-oxidants.
