"GC-MS Characterization of Ziziphus spina-christi Essential Oil and its Antioxidant Efficacy in Rabbit Models"
Keywords:
Ziziphus spina-christi, Essential oil, GC–MS, Antioxidant defense, Oxidative stressAbstract
The present study investigated the chemical composition of Ziziphus spina-christi leaves essential oil and evaluated its systemic antioxidant effects in an in vivo rabbit model. Essential oil was extracted by hydro-distillation and characterized using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The analysis revealed a complex volatile profile predominantly composed of phenolic and terpenoid compounds. Carvacrol (19.19%) and caryophyllene (16.27%) were identified as the principal constituents, accompanied by moderate levels of α-terpinenyl acetate, camphor, and oxygenated monoterpenes, suggesting a strong bioactive potential. To examine the physiological relevance of this phytochemical composition, male rabbits were orally administered Ziziphus spina-christi essential oil, and key antioxidant biomarkers were assessed. The treated group exhibited a significant elevation in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (P < 0.01), indicating enhanced superoxide radical dismutation. Catalase (CAT) activity was also significantly increased (P < 0.05), reflecting improved hydrogen peroxide detoxification. Additionally, reduced glutathione (GSH) levels were markedly elevated (P < 0.01), demonstrating reinforcement of non-enzymatic antioxidant capacity and intracellular redox homeostasis. Collectively, these findings establish a clear link between the GC–MS-defined phytochemical profile of Ziziphus spina-christi essential oil and its in vivo antioxidant efficacy. The dominance of carvacrol and caryophyllene appears to play a central role in modulating antioxidant defense mechanisms, supporting the potential application of this essential oil as a natural antioxidant agent in biomedical and veterinary contexts.
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