In Vitro Analysis of Bioactive Properties of Hevea brasiliensis Leaf Extract: Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, And Membrane Stabilization Potential

Abstract

Herbal medicine plays a pivotal role in global healthcare, particularly in developing regions where traditional plant-based remedies are often the primary therapeutic resource. Hevea brasiliensis, commonly cultivated for natural rubber, is also traditionally used for medicinal purposes. This study investigates the in vitro biological activities anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and membrane-stabilizing properties of the methanolic leaf extract of H. brasiliensis. Phytochemical analysis indicated the existence of reducing sugars, flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, steroids and saponins. The plant exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity, with 76.7% inhibition of protein denaturation at 500 μg/ml, comparable to aspirin (75.4%). Antioxidant assays demonstrated strong DPPH radical scavenging activity (76.93% at 2000 μg/ml), supporting the presence of potent antioxidative compounds. The extract also showed mild to moderate membrane-stabilizing effects, with a maximum inhibition of hemolysis at 43.20%, suggesting a potential role in lysosomal membrane stabilization. These results support the traditional use of H. brasiliensis and emphasize its potential as a source of biologically active substances for medicinal advancement.