Phytochemical Profiling of Avicennia officinalis Using GC-MS: Identification of Bioactive Compounds with Therapeutic Potential

Introduction: Avicennia officinalis, commonly known as white mangrove, is native to coastal regions of India and has been traditionally used in indigenous medicine to treat ailments, such as rheumatism, asthma, and snakebites. Its rich reservoir of bioactive compounds has attracted increasing scientific interest for potential pharmacological applications. The present study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant activity and characterize the phytochemical constituents responsible for this effect in a leaf extract of Avicennia officinalis. Methods: Methanolic extracts of Avicennia officinalis leaves were prepared and subjected to GC-MS analysis. The chromatographic profile was analyzed to identify the phytochemical constituents based on retention time and mass spectral data. Results: GC-MS analysis revealed several bioactive compounds. The major components identified included Neophytadiene (1.26%) and Lupeol (1.79%). Neophytadiene demonstrated antifertility, anxiolytic, and anticonvulsant activities, while Lupeol exhibited broad pharmacological effects, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic properties. Discussion: The findings provide a strong scientific basis for the traditional uses of A. officinalis. The identified compounds, particularly Lupeol, align with its traditional application against tumors. The presence of various bioactive compounds supports the plant's ethnopharmacological relevance. Conclusion: This study confirms that Avicennia officinalis is a source of bioactive phenolic compounds with demonstrable antioxidant properties. The results validate its ethnopharmacological relevance and highlight its potential for future research into natural antioxidants, pending further compound isolation and in vivo studies.