QUALITATIVE EVALUATION OF PHYTOCHEMICALS IN TAMARIX APHYLLA: A PRELIMIARY INVESTIGAATION

Abstract

Background: Plants are rich sources of bioactive compounds, contributing significantly to healthcare by offering protection against microbial infections and other non-infectious ailments. Tamarix aphylla, commonly known as Athel tamarisk, is a halophytic plant widely recognized for its ethnopharmacological uses. Its secondary metabolites, including alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and saponins, exhibit therapeutic potential. This study aimed to explore the phytochemical composition, antioxidant properties, and chemical constituents of the ethyl acetate extract of Tamarix aphylla.

Objective: To analyze the phytochemical composition, evaluate antioxidant activity, and identify bioactive components in the ethyl acetate extract of Tamarix aphylla leaves.

Methods: The leaves of Tamarix aphylla were collected, air-dried, and powdered. Ethyl acetate was used as the solvent for extraction. Phytochemical screening tests were conducted using standard protocols to detect the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, steroids, and triterpenoids. Antioxidant activity was assessed via the DPPH assay, and the IC50 value was determined. Quantification of total phenolic content was performed using gallic acid equivalents (GAE).

Results: Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of tannins, flavonoids, saponins, and alkaloids, while steroids and triterpenoids were absent. Total phenolic content was measured at 39.3 mg GAE/g extract. Antioxidant activity showed an inhibition range of 22.1% to 66.3% at concentrations of 1–25 mg/mL, with an IC50 value of 14.0 mg/mL compared to 9.0 mg/mL for vitamin C. Methanol was identified as the most effective solvent for metabolite extraction.

Conclusion: The ethyl acetate extract of Tamarix aphylla demonstrates promising antioxidant activity and contains a variety of bioactive phytochemicals. This highlights its potential for therapeutic applications, warranting further research into its pharmacological properties and mechanisms of action.