Anti-Oxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Juglans Regia L. and Coffea Canephora Extract Gel: An In-vitro Study

Abstract

Background:

Oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) pose a challenge due to chronic progression, malignant potential, and the limitations of conventional therapies, which often cause side effects and fail to address underlying mechanisms like oxidative stress and inflammation. Juglans regia L. (walnut) and Coffea canephora (coffee bean) are rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, and caffeine, known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antifibrolytic properties.

Aim:

To evaluate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties of a novel topical gel combining Juglans regia and Coffea canephora extracts as a safer and more effective alternative for managing OPMDs.

Materials and Methods:

The aqueous extracts of Juglans regia L. (walnut) and Coffea canephora (coffee) were prepared separately by grinding 10 grams of each respective powder and mixing with 100 ml of distilled water, heated, and then filtered. Condensing solutions were formed by heating 50 ml of each extract to 50-60°C until reduced to 5 ml. These extracts were added to a mixture of Carbopol 940 and carboxymethyl cellulose to prepare the gel. The gel's antioxidant activity was evaluated through 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay, hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) radical scavenging assay, and the Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assay.. Anti-inflammatory properties were assessed via bovine serum albumin and egg albumin denaturation assays, and membrane stabilization assay.

Results:

The Coffee bean and Walnut gel exhibited dose-dependent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities across all assays. Antioxidant effects in DPPH, H₂O₂, and FRAP assays were comparable to the standard, with no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05). Similarly, in BSA, EA, and membrane stabilization assays, the gel’s anti-inflammatory response closely mirrored that of the standard. All results were based on triplicate tests and analyzed using Student’s t-test (p < 0.05 considered significant).

Conclusion:

Juglans regia L. and Coffea canephora extract gel could be a promising, treatment option for inflammatory and potentially malignant disorders especially, OSMF due to its natural composition, targeted delivery, and potential to address the underlying mechanisms of the disease. This novel treatment modality offers a potential alternative or adjunct to the currently available antioxidant and anti-inflammatory medications.