Comprehensive Phytochemical Characterization and Polyphenolic Fingerprinting of Ficus geniculata Kurz Leaves and Analysis of In Vitro Biological Activities

ABSTRACT

Ficus geniculata Kurz (Putkal) possesses medicinal values and has traditionally been used to treat various ailments. Irrespective of the traditional utility, the quantitative and qualitative investigation of phytoconstituents in F. geniculata was not reported. Moreover, the pharmacological potential of this Ficus species remains unexplored. So, the aim of this study is to address this research gap with scientifically validated methodologies. The dried leaves were extracted by cold maceration and ultrasonic extraction using different solvents. The extracts were fractioned using solvents of different polarity. Phytochemical screening of the fractions was performed and polyphenolic fingerprinting was performed using TLC, HPTLC, HPTLC‐MS, and GC–MS. In vitro biological analysis of the fractions was performed to determine the antioxidant (IC ₅₀ value for DPPH 24.59 ± 1.20 µg/mL and IC ₅₀ value for ABTS 17.59 ± 0.82 µg/mL) and anti‐inflammatory efficacy (IC ₅₀ value for heat induce hemolysis 59.79 ± 1.29 µg/mL and IC ₅₀ value for protein denaturation assay 69.66 ± 2.77 µg/mL). The qualitative screening revealed the presence of major classes of phytochemicals. A comparative in vitro pharmacological assay proved that the ethyl acetate fraction showed significant activity (* p < 0.05) as compared to other fractions. Polyphenolic fingerprinting of the ethyl acetate fraction with various standards proved the possible presence of ferulic acid and quercetin. However, further in vivo studies are needed to confirm the efficacy of this plant fraction.