Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis and Biological Applications of Passiflora racemosa Brot. Leaf Methanol Extracts for Novel Insights into Pharmaceuticals

Abstract

Passiflora racemosa, commonly known as the passion flower, is primarily cultivated for its ornamental value. This research explores the medicinal and biological applications of the leaf extract in methanol for the first time. The toxicity test of leaf methanol extract and powdered leaf was performed in vivo on albino mice in compliance with OECD standards. The powdered-leaf and leaf methanol extract exhibited no toxicity. The antioxidant assay was conducted by the DPPH method, yielding an IC₅₀ of 0.59 μg/mL, which signifies a very strong antioxidant capacity. The antidiabetic assay was accomplished using DNSA, and an IC₅₀ obtained was 1.686 μg/mL, indicating a very strong antidiabetic activity. The total phenol content (TPC) was 60.127 ± 2.445 mg/g GAE, determined by the FCR reagent. The TFC was 398.215 ± 18.330 mg/g QE, determined by the AlCl₃ colorimetric technique. The TFC was observed to be higher compared to the TPC in the extract. The antimicrobial properties were assessed by the well-diffusion technique against pathogenic bacteria and fungi. The antimicrobial properties were not observed for the tested microorganism. The major metabolites identified by GC/MS were 9,12,15-Octadecatrienoic acid (Z,Z,Z),n-hexadecanoic acid, phytol, melezitose, d-ascorbic acid, and benzoic acid. Consequently, the leaves of this plant can serve as an antioxidant and antidiabetic agent. This research establishes a foundation for subsequent, more comprehensive investigations into the extraction of active metabolites for therapeutic purposes.