Influence of gamma irradiation on the biological properties of Asplenium scolopendrium L. hydroalcoholic extracts

Abstract Gamma irradiation represents a method extensively used for the sterilization of natural products, thus leading to the extension of the products’ shelf life. However, a limited number of studies presented the effects of irradiation on the biological properties of the extracts. The present work aims to evaluate the effects of gamma irradiation on the biological properties (antimicrobial, cytotoxic and phytotoxic) of two types of hydroalcoholic fern extracts (obtained from leaves of Asplenium scolopendrium L.). The results obtained revealed that the extracts are not negatively affected by the irradiation procedure, the antimicrobial properties being enhanced, especially at a radiation dose of 0.6 kGy. The same observations were made for the cytotoxic and phytotoxic properties.