Algerian Anacyclus pyrethrum aqueous extract: novel antioxidant and neuroprotectant activity of a chemically profiled aqueous extract

Anacyclus pyrethrum (L.) Lag has a long tradition of medical use in Algeria. We report for the first time the antioxidant, functional and neuroprotective properties of this plant from Algeria. Differences in biochemical and physiological properties for the aqueous and methanol extracts of A. pyrethrum are reported and related to the main chemical constituents. The A. pyrethrum extracts contained amino acids, caffeoylquinic acids, N-feruloyltyramine and alkaloids, including including N-alkylamides, common in this plant species. Aqueous extracts (0.1 mg/ml) are neuroprotective against H2O2-induced oxidative stress, while methanol extracts (high phenolic content), despite significant antioxidant and free-radical scavenging activity, caused dysregulation of calcium signalling in neurons and was not apparently neuroprotective. Such knowledge can provide incentive for the sustainable cultivation of Algerian A. pyrethrum, with the aim of supporting conservation strategies and preserving biodiversity.