Phytochemical Analysis, In vitro Assessment of Antioxidant Properties and Cytotoxic Potential of Thymus capitatus Essential Oil

Essential oils (EOs) of medicinal plants became a matter of interest in scientific research because of their potential of utilization for several therapeutic purposes, The EO of Thymus capitatus has been traditionally used in treatment of several conditions related to skin, muscles, and respiratory system, to reduce fever, and to stimulate menstrual flow in addition to its anti-bacterial properties. To chemically analyze the components of the EO of Thymus capitatus and to evaluate its anti-cancerous and anti-oxidant activity on breast cancer cells (T47D), colorectal adenocarcinoma cells (CACO2), and normal human fibroblasts (MRC5). The EOs were extracted by hydro-distillation. Gas chromatography and mass spectrometry were used to analyze the extracts. Cell viability was assessed using three different assays; MTT, trypan blue and neutral red assays. Antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH scavenging assay. Cell apoptosis was assessed using DNA fragmentation tests and Annexin V-propidium iodide assay. Morphological analysis of cells was assessed using light microscopy and DAPI staining. Twenty-two different compounds were identified in the essential oil of T. capitatus leaves including Thymol (44.34%) and Carvacrol (38.89%) in addition to 20 minor components. The oil extract exhibited a significant inhibitory action on the three cell lines. The viability assays showed significantly higher (p