Antimicrobial and antioxidant activities and preclinical evaluation of common yarrow, Achillea millefolium L.

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty Biology and Biotechnology, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Almaty, Kazakhstan

2 Department of Biology, Institute of Natural Science, Kazakh National Women's Teacher Training University, Almaty, Kazakhstan

3 High School of Natural Sciences of Astana International University, Astana, Kazakhstan

4 Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Geography, Kazakh National Pedagogical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan

5 Department of Sheep Breeding of the Meat Direction, Kazakh Scientific Research Institute of Animal and Fodder Production, Almaty, Kazakhstan

10.22124/cjes.2025.8564

Abstract

This research explores the bioactive potential of Achillea millefolium L. (common yarrow), a plant historically utilized in traditional medicine, by evaluating its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. The study involves extracting and characterizing bioactive compounds from yarrow, followed by in vitro analyses to assess its effectiveness against prevalent pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans. Antimicrobial performance is measured using agar diffusion and microdilution techniques to quantify inhibitory effects. Antioxidant capacity is determined through two assays: DPPH radical scavenging, which yields an IC50 value of 45.2 µg mL-1, and FRAP analysis, demonstrating a ferric-reducing capability of 78.3%. These results highlight yarrow’s ability to neutralize reactive oxygen species and reduce oxidative stress, underscoring its therapeutic promise. Preclinical evaluation involves in vivo studies on rodent models to assess the anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties of yarrow extracts, demonstrating a 40% reduction in inflammation and a 35% acceleration in wound closure compared to control groups. Phytochemical analysis identifies flavonoids, phenolic acids, and sesquiterpene lactones as the primary bioactive constituents responsible for these effects. The findings suggest that A. millefolium L. possesses potent antimicrobial and antioxidant properties and promising preclinical efficacy, making it a potential candidate for developing natural therapeutic agents. Further studies are recommended to explore its safety, dosage, and mechanisms of action for clinical applications.

Keywords

References

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Caspian Journal of Environmental Sciences
Volume 23, Issue 1
January 2025
Pages 81-88

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