The Journal of Phytopharmacology 2024; 13(6):470-477 DOI:10.31254/phyto.2024.13608

Research Article

Secondary metabolite profiling, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory investigations of Symplocos paniculata (Thunb.) Miq., an ethnomedicinal plant from Kumaun Himalayan region

Sheetal Koranga¹ , Preeti Chaturvedi² , Lalit M. Tewari¹

Sheetal Koranga,Preeti Chaturvedi,Lalit M. Tewari

1. Department of Botany, Dev Singh Bisht Campus, Kumaun University, Nainital- 263001, Uttarakhand, India
2. Department of Biological Sciences, College of Basic Sciences and Humanities, Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar- 263145, Uttarakhand, India

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

Received: 9th November, 2024 / Accepted: 11th December, 2024 / Published : 31st December, 2024

Abstract

Background: Traditional medicine relies heavily on plant-based remedies for immune system modulation, offering advantages of affordability, reduced toxicity, minimal side effects, and better accessibility compared to synthetic alternatives. Symplocos paniculata (Thunb.) Miq. has been traditionally used in ethnomedicine for various ailments, though its chemical composition and therapeutic properties remain inadequately studied. Objectives: Thus, this study aimed to investigate the phytochemical composition and evaluate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of leaf and bark extracts from S. paniculata. Material and Methods: The study employed qualitative and quantitative phytochemical screening methods, along with in vitro assays including DPPH radical scavenging and metal chelation for antioxidant activity, and protein denaturation for anti-inflammatory effects. GC-MS analysis was conducted to identify the phytoconstituents. Results and Conclusion: Phytochemical screening revealed diverse compounds, with leaf extracts showing higher concentrations of phenolics, flavonoids, and tannins compared to bark extracts. Bark extract demonstrated superior antioxidant properties with DPPH radical scavenging (IC₅₀ = 61.37 μg/ml) and metal chelating (IC₅₀ = 30.06 μg/ml) activities. Moderate anti-inflammatory activity was observed, with leaf extract showing slightly higher potency (IC₅₀ = 222.81 μg/ml). GC-MS analysis identified terpenes, phytosterols, and fatty acids as major constituents in both extracts. The study provides scientific validation for traditional medicinal applications of S. paniculata through comprehensive characterization of its phytochemical profile and demonstration of significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, establishing its potential for pharmaceutical development.