Abstract

An extract from the seeds of Trigonella foenum graecum (Fenugreek) was evaluated for its protective effect against hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) induced oxidation in normal sheep erythrocytes (red blood cells (RBCs)). RBCs, treated with increasing concentrations of 30% H₂O₂ along with fenugreek seed extract (FSE) were analyzed for hemolysis and lipid peroxidation. Sheep RBCs treated with increasing concentrations of glucose, to study effect of high glucose level or hyperglycemia on normal SRBC, were found to be more susceptible to lipid peroxidation than those from normal subjects. However, on treatment with FSE, the oxidative modifications in both the groups (RBCs treated with glucose and not treated with glucose) were found to reduce significantly. The inhibition of lipid peroxidation was concentration-dependent up to 100 μl of extract, which contained 0.75 mM gallic acid equivalent (GAE) of phenolic compounds. The total phenolic content in the extract was determined spectrophotometrically according to the Folin-Ciocalteau procedure and was expressed as mg or mM GAE. The results indicate that the extract of fenugreek seeds contains antioxidants and protects cellular structures from oxidative damage. These findings demonstrate the potent antioxidant properties of the fenugreek seeds.

Key words: Fenugreek seed extract (FSE), type II diabetes, osmofragility test, lipid peroxidation.