An extract of Ruta graveolens was found to be cytotoxic to Dalton’s lymphoma ascites (DLA), Ehrlich ascites
carcinoma (EAC) and L929 cells in culture (IC100 = 16mg/ml) and also to increase the lifespan of tumour bearing
animals. The extract further decreased solid tumours developing from DLA and EAC cells when given simultaneously
with elongation of the lifespan of tumour-bearing animals. A homeopathic preparation of Ruta graveolens (200c) was
equally effective. Neither was effective for reducing already developed tumours. The Ruta graveolens extract was
found to scavenge hydroxyl radicals and inhibit lipid peroxidation at low concentrations. However, at higher
concentrations the extract acted as a prooxidant as inhibition of lipid peroxidation and scavenging of hydroxyl
radical was minimal . These data indicates that the prooxidant activity of Ruta graveolens may be responsible for the
cytocidal action of the extract and its ability to produce tumour reduction.
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