Quantitative analysis of tannins, alkaloids, phenols, and flavonoids in Ficus semicordata leaf, stem, stem bark, root, and fruit powder

Abstract

Introduction: Ficus semicordata Buch.-Ham. ex Sm. (Syn. Ficus cunia Buch.- Ham. ex Roxb.) of familyMoraceae, is one of the plants used by the folklore of Odisha for medicinal purposes. Traditional healers use the plant’s leaf, stem, stem bark, root, and fruit to treat jaundice, stomach disorders, skin diseases, and other ailments. The present research article explores the quantitative estimation of tannins, alkaloids, phenols, and flavonoids of leaf, stem, stem bark, root, and fruit powder of Ficus semicordata, as these are responsible for antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and other activities. Materials and Methods: The plant and its various useful parts, after through identification and authentication, were collected from the Gandhamardana hills in Paikamal, Odisha. Quantitative estimation of different parts was performed following standard procedures. Results: Quantitative estimation revealed the presence of maximum tannin in stem bark followed by leaf; maximum alkaloid in fruit followed by leaf; maximum phenol in stem followed by root; and maximum flavonoid content in stem followed by root. Quantitative analysis revealed the presence of tannin and alkaloid in all the samples, which plays a significant role oxidative defence, antimalarial, anticancer, cholinomimetic, vasodilatory, analgesic, antibacterial, and antihyperglycemic activities. Conclusion: Quantitative estimation revealed the presence of tannin and alkaloid in all the parts of F. semicordata.