Vitex agnus-castus L. (Chasteberry) extracts shows in vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor propensities via reduction of cyclooxygenase-2 activity and oxidative stress complications

Abstract Vitex agnus-castus, is a famous botanical remedy and a nutritional supplement to manage a panoply of human ailments. The impact of V. agnus-castus fruits aqueous-alcoholic crude extract and its fractions were evaluated for possible in vitro antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and in vivo antitumor efficacy. The inhibitory action of the tested extract and fractions on cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1&2) were assessed. In addition, scavenging ability on different radicals and molecule were evaluated together with the chelating character, lipid peroxide inhibitory action and reducing power. The efficient fraction was then evaluated for possible anti-tumor agent in immunomodulatory model (Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma). The aqueous-alcoholic extract and ethyl acetate fractions significantly (p