Unravelling Anti-Glycation, Anti-Amyloid, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antioxidant Properties of Selected Medicinal Plant Extracts: A Multifaceted Novel Anti-Aging Approach

Objective This study investigates how hydroalcoholic and ethanolic extracts from Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels, Nelumbo nucifera Gaertner, Coccinia indica Wight & Arn, Syzygium jambolanum (Lam.) DC, Cardiospermum helicacabum L, and Solanum trilobatum L impact the glycation, Amyloid β (Aβ) aggregation, inflammation, and oxidative stress—processes central to age-related disorders. Methodology Using spectrofluorimetric and Thioflavin T fluorescence tests, the activity of plant extracts (ethanolic and hydroalcoholic) on albumin glycation and Aβ 25-35 self-aggregation was examined. To comprehend the effects of plant extracts on inflammation, macrophages were subjected to plant extract treatment and, subsequently assessed for, cell viability, cytokine production (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10), and nitric oxide generation using XTT assay, ELISA, and nitric oxide estimation kit, respectively. Additionally, the DPPH and ABTS assays were used to evaluate the plant extracts capacity to scavenge radicals, and the total phenolic content was determined. Results Among the 12 plant extracts examined, S. trilobatum hydroalcoholic (Sth) extracts significantly reduced the three AGEs content (Malondialdehyde, pentosidine, and crossline) as compared to glycated BSA (p < 0.0001). Moreover, A. sinensis hydroalcoholic (Ash) extracts inhibited the self-aggregation of Aβ 25-35 fargments by 87%, exhibiting significant anti-amyloid activity and a possible function in preventing protein aggregation linked to neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's disease (AD). Meanwhile, C. indica hydroalcoholic (Cih) extracts displayed substantial anti-inflammatory activity by maintaining the cell viability and reducing the pro-inflammatory cytokine and nitric oxide production, highlighting their potential to control inflammation, a significant factor in age-related diseases. Conclusion The results demonstrated that S. triolobatum , A. sinensis , and C. indica hydroalcoholic extracts contain significant anti-glycation, anti-aggregation, and anti-inflammatory activities. These findings are highly relevant, as they address key contributors such as AGEs, aggregation, and inflammation, which drive age-related disorders. The study underscores the potential of these extracts as natural interventions targeting the molecular hallmarks of ageing, supporting their role in preventive healthcare.