Introduction
Cymbopogon citratus is a medicinal plant widely used for its antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Phenolic compounds such as gallic acid play a key role in reducing oxidative stress and cancer risk.
Materials and Methods
Leaves were collected from Nandurbar district, India. Aqueous extraction was performed using cold maceration. Phytochemical screening included tests for alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, proteins, and carbohydrates.
Results
Phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of major bioactive compounds including alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, carbohydrates, and proteins, while saponins and steroids were absent.
Total phenolic content was determined using a gallic acid calibration curve showing strong linearity (R² = 0.9774).
HPLC analysis identified gallic acid as a major phenolic compound with concentration approximately 20 µg/mL.
Discussion
The findings align with previous studies confirming high phenolic content in lemongrass. Gallic acid contributes to antioxidant and anticancer activity by inducing apoptosis and inhibiting cancer cell proliferation.
Conclusion
Cymbopogon citratus contains significant phenolic compounds and shows promise for anticancer applications. Further in vitro and in vivo studies are required to validate its therapeutic potential.
References
- Shah G. et al. (2011). Therapeutic uses of Cymbopogon citratus.
- Hadidi M. et al. (2024). Health benefits of gallic acid.
- Shaikh JR. (2020). Phytochemical screening methods.
- Additional references as per original article.