Neuroprotective Effects of Natural Extracts from Olive (Olea europaea) Plant Growing in Libya

Abstract

There is an increasing link between oxidative stress, inflammation, and neuronal damage in neurodegenerative dis-eases. Therefore, there is the need for safer natural neuroprotective drugs to protect neurons from damage. This study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effect of natural extracts derived from Olea Europaea plants from Libya. Leaves and fruits of the olives were extracted using ethanol and methanol solvents. The extracts were then analyzed for the presence of phytochemicals and antioxidants, and neuroprotective activity was determined using neuronal cell models. Findings from the study show that olive extract was rich in phenols, flavonoids, oleuropein, and hydroxytryrosol in methanol extracts of leaves. There was a high free radical scavengeing capacity as shown by antioxidant activity tests. Moreover, neuroprotective studies show that the extracts could in-crease neuronal cell viability and reduce intracellular reactive oxygen species when cells are exposed to oxidative stress. Inflammation markers such as TNF-α and IL-6 were also inhibited by the extracts.