Phytochemical profiling and anti-inflammatory activity of Atriplex halimus L. leaf extracts

Climate change, particularly drought and soil salinity, severely affects agricultural productivity and biodiversity in arid regions. Halophytic plants such as Atriplex halimus L., naturally adapted to saline and oxidative stress, represent promising sources of bioactive compounds. This study investigated the phytochemical profile and in vitro anti-inflammatory activity of Atriplex halimus leaves collected from the M’sila region, central Algeria.

Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of major classes of secondary metabolites, including phenolic compounds (tannins, flavonoids, and coumarins), terpenoids (phytosterols, triterpenes, saponins, and iridoids), and alkaloids. A high foam index indicated a substantial saponin content and cardiotonic glycosides were not identified in the extract.

Two extracts were prepared by maceration: a hydroethanolic extract and an aqueous extract. Anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using protein denaturation inhibition and erythrocyte membrane stabilization assays. Both extracts demonstrated measurable activity, with the hydroethanolic extract consistently showing higher efficacy than the aqueous extract.

These findings suggest that Atriplex halimus is a natural source of compounds with moderate anti-inflammatory potential, warranting further phytochemical and in vivo investigations.