145IN VITRO ANTIOXIDANT EFFECTS OF DICHLOROMETHANE – METHANOLIC BLEND EXTRACTS OF Clutia abyssinica AND Maytenus obscuraThe present study was designed to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant potential of Dichloromethane:-Methanolic blend leaf extracts of Clutia abyssinica and Maytenus obscura. This was determined using 1,1 –Diphenyl-2-Picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging assay, ferric reducing power, hydrogen peroxide scavenging assay and total phenolic content at various concentrations. Ascorbic acid was used as the standard. In addition, qualitative phytochemical screening of the extracts was done. The DCM-MeOH blend leaf extracts of both plants demonstrated a dose dependent increase in DPPH scavenging activities and total ferric reducing power. However, they demonstrated a dose dependent reduction in hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity. There were significant differences between the extracts and the standard in terms of antioxidant activities. Total phenol content correlated positively with the antioxidant capacities of the plant extracts. Phytochemical analysis showed presence of different secondary metabolites associated with antioxidant activities. In conclusion the DCM: MeOH blend extracts of C. abyssinica and M. obscura demonstrated remarkable in vitro antioxidant activities. Therefore, Clutia abyssinica and Maytenus obscura maybe be used as alternative or complementary sources of antioxidants for management of different health conditions that arise due to oxidative stress. The present study scientifically validates and supports the traditional use of these plants in the management of oxidative stress.janeykemunto@gmail.comResearch822018oxidative stress, DPPH scavenging, ferric reducing power, total phenolic content, antioxidant activity.Maoga Jane Bosibori,Mburu David,Ngugi Mathew PieroMaoga Jane Bosibori,Mburu David,Ngugi Mathew Piero