Investigations on Secondary Metabolites in Different Parts of Radermachera xylocarpa Using GC-MS

Abstract

Objective: To explore the important secondary compounds contained in leaves, stem and root of Radermachera xylocarpa. Methods: All three parts are collected and shade dried. The preliminary phytochemical screening of leaves, stem and root reveals the presence of steroids, alkaloids and terpenoids in dichloromethane extract. These tests are performed using the standard methods of Harborne. The preliminary screening reveals the presence of steroids, alkaloids and terpenoids in all three parts in dichloromethane extract. Gas Chromatography – Mass Spectroscopy analysis of leaves, stem and root is performed on dichloromethane extract which reveals the presence of different secondary metabolites. Results: All samples, namely leaves, stem and root of Radermachera xylocarpa shows the presence of different steroidal, alkaloidal and terpenoidal compounds in dichloromethane extract. Conclusion: Radermachera xylocarpa is an excellent source of secondary metabolites especially steroidal compounds which may be used in drug formulations, medicines, pharmaceuticals etc. Further investigation on this plant may lead to important drug discoveries.