Identification of secondary metabolites, antioxidant activity, and GC-MS analysis of <i>Launaea procumbens</i> (Roxb.) Amin (Angiosperm: Asteraceae): A neglected plant with therapeutic value

Abstract

Although <i>Launaea procumbens</i> (Roxb.) Amin is not currently used by pharmacists; it has great potential for future medicinal use. According to both Ayurvedic texts and modern research, the leaves of Launaea procumbens have galactagogue, diuretic, antifungal, anorexic, anti-arthritic, and hepatoprotective properties. In this communication, various sections of <i>L. procumbens</i>, a member of the Asteraceae (Compositae) family is characterized pharmacognostically. Extracts were tested qualitatively for various constituents, revealing the presence of lignans, cardiac glycosides, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, tannins, steroids, and flavonoids. The leaves and stems were extracted using four different solvents: methanol, chloroform, distilled water, and petroleum ether, with methanol and chloroform extracts showing more significant results than petroleum ether and distilled water extract. These observations will aid in identifying and standardizing the drug in its crude form and distinguishing it from adulteration. This work aims to develop standardization parameters for <i>L. procumbens</i> leaves and stems by evaluating its pharmacognostics and conducting preliminary phytochemical screening. Additionally, GC-MS fingerprinting of the leaves revealed the presence of nine different chemical constituents, which could be useful for differentiating <i>L. procumbens</i> from other species of the genus <i>Launaea</i> in the herbal industry.