Evidence suggesting a nitric oxide-scavenging activity for traditional crude drugs, and action mechanisms of Sanguisorbae radix against oxidative stress and aging

In this series of experiments, we found that Sanguisorbae Radix extract pos sesses strong free radical-scavenging activity in vitro and in vivo. This c rude drug protected against renal disease, which is closely associated with excessive generation of reactive oxygen species. We also showed that Sangu isorbae Radix extract can suppress lipid peroxidation and stimulate an anti oxidant defense ability in SAM, suggesting that this crude drug may be an e ffective agent for ameliorating the pathological conditions related to exce ssive generation of free radicals and oxidant damage, particularly in the a ging process.