PHYTOCHEMICAL AND GC–MS CHARACTERIZATION OF THE HYDROETHANOLIC LEAF EXTRACT OF CURCUMA LONGA L. (ZINGIBERACEAE)

Abstract

Curcuma longa L. (Zingiberaceae) is a widely utilized medicinal plant, known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and hepatoprotective properties. While rhizome-based pharmacology has been extensively studied, leaf bioactivity remains underexplored. This study investigated the phytochemical composition of the leaf extract of Curcuma longa using standard qualitative tests and Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS). Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, saponins, terpenoids, glycosides, and phenolic compounds. GC–MS analysis identified major constituents including ergosterol (18.03%), n-hexadecanoic acid (10.51%), oleic acid (⁓10.22%), stearic acid (6.62%), phytol (0.70%), and squalene (0.57%). These bioactive compounds are reported to possess antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. This study characterises the chemical constituents identified in the leaves of Curcuma longa and highlights their potential as a source of bioactive compounds with possible pharmacological relevance.