Phytochemical Screening and Antioxidant Activity of Ficus carica Leaf.

Abstract

Medicinal plants are source of phytochemical compounds that play a significant role in human healthcare. The potent effects of these plants are mainly due to the presence of secondary metabolites. This study aimed to identify various phytochemicals and quantify the total phenolic and flavonoid content in the methanolic extract of Ficus carica leaves, as well as to measure their antioxidant properties.

Alkaloids, glycosides, steroids, flavonoids, saponins, and tannins were all detected in the raw powdered extract of Ficus carica leaves. However, alkaloids were absent in the methanolic extract. In the quantitative analysis, the total flavonoid content was significantly higher than the total phenolic content. The result of the study highlighted the potent phenol and flavonoid contents and antioxidant properties in the extract, indicating its potential for developing new drugs. This study also supports some of the traditional medicinal properties of the plant.

Keywords: F. carica, Phytochemicals, antioxidant, Methanol.