Phytochemical Characterization and Quantitative Analysis of Total Phenolic Content in Cymbopogon citratus Leaves: A Preclinical Assessment for Anticancer Potential

Abstract

Background: Cymbopogon citratus (lemongrass) is widely used in traditional medicine for its therapeutic properties, attributed largely to its secondary metabolites, particularly phenolic compounds. This study aimed to conduct a phytochemical investigation of C. citratus leaves, quantify total phenolic content, and identify major phenolic constituents to assess their potential anticancer relevance.
Method: Aqueous extraction of C. citratus leaves was followed by preliminary phytochemical screening, total phenolic content estimation via the Folin–Ciocalteu method, and phenolic profiling using reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). Gallic acid was used as the standard for both spectrophotometric and chromatographic calibration.
Results: Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, carbohydrates, and proteins. The total phenolic content was quantified as 163.7–251.4 mg GAE/100 g of extract. HPLC analysis identified key phenolic compounds such as gallic acid, in concentrations comparable to published bioactive ranges. These compounds are recognized for their antioxidant and pro-apoptotic activities, suggesting a basis for potential anticancer effects.
Conclusion: The study confirms the presence of phenolic compounds with known anticancer relevance in C. citratus. These findings support further in vitro and in vivo pharmacological evaluations to explore the plant's therapeutic potential in cancer prevention and treatment.