Antioxidant and Neuroprotective Effects of Chuquiraga spinosa Less. and Baccharis genistelloides (Pers.) Lam. in a Rat Model of Transient Cerebral Ischemia-reperfusion

Background: Cerebral ischemia, a leading cause of disability and mortality, is strongly related to oxidative stress and inflammation, highlighting the need for neuroprotective antioxidant and cytokine-modulating agents. Objective: To characterize the phytochemical profile and evaluate the antioxidant and neuroprotective effects of hydroalcoholic extracts of Chuquiraga spinosa (ChS) and Baccharis genistelloides (BaG), individually and in combination, in a rat model of cerebral ischemia–reperfusion. Methodology: Phytochemical screening and GC-MS were performed with antioxidant assays (ABTS•⁺, DPPH•, FRAP). Neurological deficit was assessed (Bederson scale), while histopathology, oxidative stress markers (MDA, GSH, SOD, CAT, NOx), and cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β) were measured. Groups included Normal (no ischemia), Ischemia (oral placebo), Citicoline 300 mg/kg, ChS 500 mg/kg, BaG 500 mg/kg, and the oral combination ChS 500 + BaG 500 mg/kg, all administered for seven days prior to ischemia induction. Results: ChS had higher total phenolic content than BaG (p = 0.0079). GC-MS identified 23 compounds in ChS and 17 in BaG. The combination displayed greater antioxidant activity than either extract. At 24 h, ChS 500 mg/Kg and the combination reduced severe neurological deficit to 17% (vs. 83% in ischemia). Histopathology revealed less neuronal damage with the combination, comparable to ChS 500 mg/Kg. All treatments decreased MDA levels; the combination also enhanced GSH and CAT and significantly reduced TNF-α and IL-1β. Conclusion: ChS and BaG extracts exert neuroprotective effects against cerebral ischemia. Their combination shows synergistic antioxidant activity against free radicals and enhances the modulation of inflammatory cytokines, supporting a greater neuroprotective potential.