Protective Effects of Shallot (Allium Ascalonicum) Extracts Against PAH-Induced Oxidative Stress in Human Nasal Epithelial Cells

This study explores the protective effects of shallot (Allium ascalonicum) extracts against oxidative stress caused by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in human nasal epithelial cells. The ethanolic extract of shallots, rich in phenolic compounds like quercetin, demonstrated significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. It effectively reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, restored superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and decreased lipid peroxidation in a dose-dependent manner. These findings suggest that shallot extracts could be a promising natural intervention for protecting respiratory health against air pollution-related oxidative stress, with potential development into nasal spray formulations for localized protection. Further in vivo studies are necessary to confirm these protective effects.