Use of medicinal plants in patients with chronic diseases, followed by an antioxidant study on Anchusa azurea L.

Abstract

This study focuses on the plant Anchusa azurea L. by analyzing its physical and chemical properties, with particular emphasis on the extraction of bioactive compounds using different solvents such as Distilled Water, ethanol, and petroleum ether, and evaluating the yield of each extraction method. Medicinal plants occupy a fundamental place in both traditional and modern medicine due to their richness in active compounds such as phenolics and flavonoids, making them a promising source for natural therapies. The research results showed that extracts of Anchusa azurea possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, in addition to their ability to inhibit enzymes involved in blood sugar regulation (α-amylase and α- glucosidase), which supports its potential use as an adjuvant treatment for chronic diseases such as diabetes. The study also highlights the importance of selecting appropriate extraction techniques to maximize the yield of active compounds. These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of this plant in Algeria and support the development of safe and natural therapeutic alternatives from local plant resources.