Determination of total phenolic content, total antioxidants, and GC–MS analysis of two different solvent extracts of Merremia quinquefolia (L.) Hallier f. Twigs grown in Bundelkhand region of India

Abstract

Abstract BACKGROUND: Merremia quinquefolia (L.) Hallier f. (MQ) is a species of Merremia belonging to the family Convolvulaceae. It is a herbaceous prostrate or climbing vine that is well-known for its ability to heal burns, scalds, and sores. This study aimed to estimate the total phenolic content and antioxidants and characterize the phytochemical constituents of methanolic and aqueous extracts of MQ twigs. METHODS: The dried powdered twigs of MQ were extracted with methanol and distilled water by hot percolation method. These two prepared extracts were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) to characterize the chemical constituents of crude extracts. The Folin–Ciocalteu reagent method was used to determine the total phenolic content of both extracts, and their total antioxidant content was determined using a phospho-molybdate assay. RESULTS: The results of GC–MS analysis revealed the presence of 17 major peaks of different phytochemicals in the methanol extract and 16 major peaks of various phytochemicals in the distilled water extract. These phytochemicals were identified by comparing their retention time and mass spectra with the literature. In addition, the methanol extract contained high phenolic content but less antioxidant than distilled water extract. CONCLUSION: This study shows that twigs of the MQ plant are rich sources of bioactive compounds that can play an important role in drug design to deal with many diseases.