Phytochemical analyses and evaluation of the toxic effects of Tridax procumbens L. (asteraceae) leaves

Abstract

Background: Tridax procumbens L. (Asteraceae), locally known as “Angamay,” is a medicinal plant widely used in Madagascar. Traditionally, its leaves are applied to wounds, cuts, and burns, and decoctions of the plant are used to treat stomach aches, fever, malaria, and dysentery. Aim of the study: This work aims to perform phytochemical screening of Tridax procumbens L. leaves, isolate major compounds, and evaluate the preliminary toxicity of the extracts. Materials and Methods: Successive maceration with solvents of increasing polarity (hexane, dichloromethane, methanol) was used to obtain extracts. Phytochemical tests and chromatographic separation of the dichloromethane extract were performed. Structure elucidation of isolated compounds was carried out by ¹H, ¹³C, and DEPT NMR and confirmed by literature comparison. Results: The extracts contained flavonoids, polysaccharides, and terpenoids. Chromatographic separation yielded two compounds (F36-44 and F66-78). F66-78 was identified as Chrysin (5,7-dihydroxy-2-phenyl-4H-chromen-4-one). Preliminary toxicity assessment was also conducted.