Gas chromatographic‐mass spectroscopic identification of the bioactive compounds in Hydrocotyle bonariensis (794.8)

Abstract

Hydrocotyle bonariensis Comm. Ex Lam (Apiacae) commonly called Large Leaf Pennyworth is a herbaceous, hairless, perennial plant which is prostrate with creeping lateral stem. It is found in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The plant’s importance in agriculture is in its usefulness in land conservation. However, the leaf of the plant has been reported to be useful as emetic, diuretic and laxative. Also, the leaf has been used in the treatment of tuberculosis, relieving the pain of rheumatism and arthritis, to increase brain capacity and for longevity. We have previously reported that the leaves of H. bonariensis contain alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, phenolics and saponins as bioactive components. The present work is a preliminary investigation into the elucidation of the bioactive compounds responsible for the curative effects ascribed to the plant. Gas chromatographic‐mass spectrometric analytical method was adopted for the chemical identification of the compounds. Result revealed that a number of anti‐oxidant, anti‐inflammatory and anti‐cancer agents including caryophellene, falcarinol and 2‐methoxybenzyl‐amine were present in the methanolic and hexane extracts of the leaves of the herb.