Phytochemical Investigation of the N-Hexane and Chloroform Root Extracts of Phyllanthus Floribundus (Phyllanthaceae)

Abstract

Phyllanthusfloribundus has been commonly used in traditional medicine, especially in western Nigeria; however, few reports have been made regarding its phytochemical constituents. The roots were collected, shade dried, exhaustively extracted with n-hexane and chloroform for phytochemical screening. The plant's root contained more polar compounds as indicated by the percentage yield; also, ketone and amide group as revealed by the functional group analysis. The thin layer chromatographic analysis of the crude n-hexane extract revealed three spots at varying retention factors - R_f: 0.30, 0.74, and 0.91; the chloroform extract also indicated three spots with retention factors - R_f: 0.34, 0.86, 0.96. Qualitative and quantitative phytoc+hemical screening analyses on the roots n-hexane extract indicated alkaloids (0.60 mg/100 g), saponins (0. 31 mg/100 g), and steroids (2.09 mg/100 g). In comparison, the chloroform root extract yielded alkaloids (1.33 mg/100 g), saponins (0. 96 mg/100 g), and steroids (1.36 mg/100 g).  The presence of important phytochemicals in the plant scientifically justifies its use in traditional medicine.