Antioxidant-rich fraction of Amomum subulatum fruits mitigates experimental methotrexate-induced oxidative stress by regulating TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 proinflammatory cytokines.

The culinary spice Amomum subulatum was assessed for its phytochemical composition, in vitro antioxidant potential, and in vivo ameliorating effect against methotrexate (MTX)-induced toxicities. Phytochemical analysis of methanolic extract of A. subulatum dry fruits (MEAS) confirmed the presence of different bioactive secondary metabolites. MEAS scavenged reactive free radicals and inhibited lipid peroxidation in vitro. To confirm the antioxidant efficiency of MEAS, in vivo experiment was carried out in which MTX was administered to induce oxidative stress. Co-administration of MEAS reduced MTX-induced hepatic, renal, and pulmonary toxicities via significantly (p < .01) enhancing antioxidant status and reducing oxidative stress. MTX treatment significantly (p < .01) increased liver and kidney toxicity markers and increased proinflammatory cytokine (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) levels. However, co-administration of MEAS significantly (p < .01) reduced their levels, and tissue histopathology confirmed the protective effect of MEAS in maintaining normal tissue architecture following MTX treatment. Protective effect of MEAS is accredited to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties exhibited by bioactive compounds in MEAS. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Amomum subulatum (Black cardamom) is a folkloric and culinary spice used for its organoleptic, nutritional, and medicinal properties. This study demonstrated the phytochemical composition and antioxidant potential of methanolic extract of A. subulatum dry fruits (MEAS). Toxicities associated with MTX therapy limit its clinical application. MEAS attenuated methotrexate-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and associated organ damages, suggesting the possible therapeutic application of A. subulatum in reducing oxidative stress and associated diseases. Our results showed that A. subulatum is a potential functional food, which may be used for the betterment of health due to its richness in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory phytochemicals.

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