Phytochemical profile and Biological activities of Aquilaria malaccensis Leaf and Stem Bark Extracts: An In vitro study

This research examined the chemical profile, antioxidant properties, and molecular composition of Aquilaria malaccensis leaf and stem bark extracts sourced from South Borneo, Indonesia. Plant materials, collected in April 2024, underwent sequential maceration using hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol. Standard methods were employed to screen for major phytochemical groups. A colorimetric approach quantified total flavonoid content (TFC), while the DPPH assay evaluated antioxidant capacity. Functional group identification utilized FTIR analysis. Additionally, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCMS) provided comprehensive characterization of the extracts’ volatile and semi-volatile components. Most extracts contained phenolics, flavonoids, terpenoids, and alkaloids. The leaf methanol extract exhibited the highest TFC (14.71 ±0.15mg QE/g) and most potent antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ = 45.17±0.55μg/mL). FTIR analysis revealed various functional groups across all extracts, including alkanes, alcohols, and amines. GCMS identified several bioactive compounds, such as squalene, phytol, and various fatty acids, offering a detailed chemical profile of the extracts. The phytochemical composition and antioxidant potential of A. malaccensis from South Borneo are revealed by this comprehensive analysis. The findings highlight this plant’s promise as a basis of natural biologically active compounds with potential applications in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries. Further research into isolating specific compounds and evaluating their therapeutic potential through in vivo studies and clinical trials is warranted.