Abstract

GC-MS ANALYSIS AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF MASS SPECTROMETRIC FINGERPRINTS OF CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS PRESENT IN ETHANOL EXTRACT OF SECURIDACA LONGIPEDUNCULATA LEAVES

Samuel E. Egga*, Mbanefo M. Ekwenchi, Adams Theophilus, Chukuka Achuenu, Solomon D. Lokta

Abstract

The aim of the present work is to evaluate the ethanolic extract of Securidaca longipedunculata leaves for its phytoconstituents using GC-MS. The extraction was carried out by maceration, and then followed by subsequent characterization of the extract by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Results for the identification of various phytochemical components in the plant were based on their NIST scores (above 70%). The phytochemical constituents identified from the leaves extract are phenolics and phthalates, fatty acids derivatives, esters and vitamin E. Both qualitative and quantitative profiles of the phytoconstituents are presented with structures and their corresponding percentage compositions. The obtained data suggest that the plant could be considered a good source of valuable bioactive agents. The observed phytoconstituents among other secondary metabolites may be responsible for its antioxidant property and hence it may be useful in medicinal applications. The presence of these compounds is consistent with previous works. Further isolation and evaluation of the biological activity are required in order to utilize the medicinal potentials of the plant for applications in agrochemical, cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical industries.

Keywords: GC-MS analysis, Securidaca longipedunculata, Constituents of ethanol extract of Securidaca longipedunculata leaves, Fatty acids.