Objective: To investigate the possible antimicrobial activities and the detoxification (endotoxin binding and free radical scavenging) properties of Cerdak.
Method: In order to measure the antimicrobial activity of Cerdak, microorganisms were separately inoculated into nutrient agar in the presence of Cerdak, and growth was observed over 48 hours. Cerdak was incubated with 4000EU/ml endotoxin, and the residual endotoxin was determined over 24 hours. The decrease in the colour of ABTS and DPPH (inorganic free radicals) in the presence of Cerdak was colourimetrically monitored as a measure of Cerdax's free radical scavenging ability. DNA was exposed to hydrogen peroxide and ultraviolet irradiation in the presence and absence of Cerdak. The DNA strand break was then observed through electrophoresis.
Results: While Cerdak had little or no antibacterial activities, it demonstrated a high water and endotoxin-binding capacity. It also protected DNA from damage by reactive oxygen species.
Conclusion: The detoxification properties of Cerdak could contribute to its healing abilities.