In Vitro Antioxidants, Antidiabetic and Antiinflammatory Properties of Nigerian Matteucia Struthiopteris (Edible Fern)

Matteuccia struthiopteris is an edible wild plant traditionally used for both nutritional and medicinal purposes across several continents, but its therapeutic relevance remains unexplored in Nigeria. This study investigated the antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory properties of the ethanol extract of M. struthiopteris collected from Ugep, Cross River State, Nigeria. The plant was identified, air-dried, and extracted using ethanol. Phytochemical screening, proximate and mineral composition analyses were conducted. In vitro assays, including DPPH, FRAP, lipid peroxidation, were used to assess antioxidant potential. Antidiabetic activity was evaluated using α-amylase, α-glucosidase inhibition, and glucose uptake by yeast cells. Anti-inflammatory potential was measured through protein denaturation, proteinase inhibition, and membrane stabilization assays. The extract demonstrated a rich phytochemical profile, with the following reported levels of saponins (4.25 mg/100 g), flavonoids (2.73 mg/100 g), and terpenoids (2.23 mg/100 g), while proximate analysis showed high moisture (66.87%) and moderate carbohydrate, protein and fiber contents. Antioxidant, antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory assays showed dose-dependent activities, with the highest activities recorded at 500 µg/mL,. In conclusion, the ethanol extract of M. struthiopteris demonstrated therapeutic potential against oxidative stress, hyperglycemia, and inflammation, however at levels lower than the standard drugs. Although shown to be less potent than standard drugs, its natural origin and multifunctional properties make it a valuable candidate for functional foods or herbal therapies. Further research is recommended, including bioassay-guided fractionation, compound isolation and in vivo validation to enhance its pharmacological application.