Anti-inflammatory properties of the stem bark from the herbal drug Vitex peduncularis Wall. ex Schauer and characterization of its polyphenolic profile

•Polyphenolic profile of Vitex peduncularis stem bark is unveiled for the first time.•Identification of unfrequently reported flavones, namely C-rhamnosyl flavones.•V. peduncularis stem bark exhibits in vitro anti-inflammatory properties.•The MeOH extract efficiently interferes with NO levels in LPS-stimulated macrophages.•Potent •NO scavenging effect and significant decrease on phospholipase A2 activity.

Vitex spp. have been reported as constituents of herbal preparations, namely Vitex peduncularis, commonly used in Asian countries. Unlike other species extensively investigated, reports on the biological activities and chemical profile of V. peduncularis are still scarce. In this work, the polyphenolic profile of V. peduncularis stem bark was unveiled, revealing a high content of apigenin and luteolin derivatives. More than 20 polyphenols were identified and quantitated for the first time, including C-rhamnosyl flavones infrequently reported. Regarding potential anti-inflammatory properties, the methanolic extract of the stem bark significantly reduced the levels of NO in macrophages, which may be a consequence of scavenging effect upon •NO. Significant inhibition of phospholipase A2 activity was also noted. Consequently, the therapeutic applicability of this edible plant is also broadened due to the anti-inflammatory properties found.