Biological properties of phenolic compound extracts in selected Algerian honeys—The inhibition of acetylcholinesterase and α-glucosidase activities

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Honey is used in various cultures as a traditional medicine and folkloric treatment. The aim of this study was to determine the antioxidant and the anti-inflammatory activities of 31 Algerian honeys and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities of phenolic compounds extracts of these honeys. Methods The anti-inflammatory activity of honey was evaluated by the method of inhibition of BSA (Bovin Serum Albumin) heat-induced denaturation. The inhibition of AChE and α-glucosidase by the honey extracts was evaluated by in-vitro methods. Results The highest percentage of inhibition (85.33%) of BSA denaturation was obtained with polyfloral honey (H27). Radical scavenging activity of honey samples against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrilhydrazyl (DPPH), and 2,2′-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) varied from 4.41 to 83.93% and from 2.52 to 63.24%, respectively. AChE inhibitory activity is one target to prevent neurodegenerative damage in Alzheimer’s disease. AChE inhibition recorded values from 20.69 to 76.04%. α-glucosidase inhibitors such as acarbose is preconized for the control of hyperglycemia and prevent diabetes damages. Honey extracts demonstrated a significant inhibitory effect on α-glucosidase activity. Moreover, the effect of Fabaceae honey (H19) (IC50\u2009=\u200952.20\u2009μg/mL) was found to be more potent than acarbose (IC50\u2009=\u2009204.27\u2009μg/mL). Correlations were observed between antioxidants and anti-inflammatory activities, AChE and α-glucosidase inhibitions with total phenolic compounds and flavonoids content in honey samples. Conclusion This study showed that honey could be exploited as a potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent within therapeutic medicine.