Comprehensive assessment of antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anti-glycation properties of aqueous and methanolic extracts from Pistacia lentiscus L. leaves: a potential natural source for managing oxidative stress and diabetes-related complications

Abstract

This study evaluates the phenolic and flavonoid contents, as well as the antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anti-glycation properties of aqueous and methanolic extracts from Pistacia lentiscus L. leaves. The antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and iron-chelation assays, revealing superior activity in the aqueous extract. Both extracts exhibited potent antidiabetic effects by inhibiting the digestive enzyme alpha-amylase, with IC50 values of 2,291 ± 0.002 μg/mL (aqueous) and 2,889 ± 0.002 μg/mL (methanolic). Additionally, the extracts demonstrated significant anti-glycation activity, reducing advanced glycation end-product (AGE) formation, inhibiting fructosamine levels, and protecting thiol groups, with the aqueous extract providing greater protection. These findings underscore the potential of P. lentiscus L. as a natural source of bioactive compounds for managing oxidative stress and diabetes-related complications.