Phytochemical Characterization of Aqueous Leaf Extracts from Cerrado Plant Species and Pharmacological Implications
DOI:
10.46551/ruc.v26n2a7Abstract
Objective: To perform the phytochemical characterization of leaf extracts from five plant species of the Cerrado biome (Casearia sylvestris, Schinopsis brasiliensis, Serjania lethalis, Piptadenia viridiflora, and Ximenia americana) and discuss their pharmacological implications. Methods: The study was conducted using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Aqueous extracts of the leaves were analyzed to identify the classes of bioactive compounds present. The samples were prepared by infusion with distilled water, followed by separation and analysis using HPLC. Results: The results revealed flavonoids as the main class of plant compounds present in the studied species, Casearia sylvestris, Schinopsis brasiliensis, Serjania lethalis, Piptadenia viridiflora, and Ximenia americana. However, other classes such as alkaloids, tannins, saponins, and triterpenes/steroids were also highlighted in the study. The presence of these compounds in the studied species suggests a broad spectrum of biological activities and potential therapeutic applications, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and antitumor properties.Conclusion: The presence of metabolites such as flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, and triterpenes/steroids demonstrates the phytochemical diversity of Cerrado species, highlighting the potential of this biome for the development of new drugs based on natural compounds. This underscores the importance of conservation and ongoing scientific exploration of this ecosystem.
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