In vitro Antioxidant Activities of Natural Polysaccharides: An overview

Polysaccharides are naturally occurring biomacromolecules composed of carbohydrate molecules linked by glycosidic bonds. A number of polysaccharides are known to possess beneficial therapeutic effects against inflammation, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancers. Indeed, polysaccharides are reportedly effective free radical scavengers and antioxidants, thereby playing a critical role in the prevention of damage to living organisms under oxidative stress. In this review we provide an overview of the sources, extraction, and antioxidant activities of some natural polysaccharides.