Cytotoxic profile activities of ethanolic and methanolic extracts of chicory plant (Cichorium intybus L.)

ABSTRACT This study aims to highlight the antioxidant and cytotoxic effects of Cichorium intybus L.. The cytotoxic activity for cancer cell lines was evaluated by MTT assay. Total phenol and flavonoid content were examined using chemical analysis methodology. The highest content of phenols and flavonoids have occurred in the methanolic extract (1162.29 ± 103.4 μg.g？1 GAE D.W, 167.47 ± 5.83 μg QE.g？1 D.W), respectively, followed by ethanolic extract (153.83 ± 10.25 μg GAE.g`1 D.W, 36.56 ± 5.95 μgQE.g？1 D.W), respectively. The cytotoxic effect of methanolic extract on MCF-7 cell line was achieved at 500 μg.mL？1. The results showed that methanolic extract possessed potent cytotoxic activity while ethanol extract possessed antioxidant activity. In conclusion, natural plant extract might be prevent and working as a defense by enhancing the immune system against cancer