Phytochemical Analysis of Ficus saussureana DC., Clerodendrum rotundifolium Oliv., and Microglossa pyrifolia (Lam.) O. Ktze as Important Antidiabetic and Antihypertensive Plants

Phytochemicals or secondary metabolites are key constituents of plants that play a major role in treating and alleviating human ailments. They possess numerous therapeutic and physiological properties, including disease prevention and treatment, symptom management, and the promotion of physical and mental well-being. Although 80% of the global population relies on plants for medicinal purposes, and analysing the phytochemical components of traditionally used plants is crucial for understanding their potential to treat specific diseases, many of these plants remain unresearched. This study assessed the phytochemical composition of Ficus saussureana DC., Clerodendrum rotundifolium Oliv., and Microglossa pyrifolia (Lam.) O. Ktze qualitatively and quantitatively via standard methods. The gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method was used to detect general compounds in the methanol extracts. The results indicated the presence of most of the analysed compounds, such as alkaloids, steroids, phenols, tannins, flavonoids, coumarins, and terpenoids. The highest amounts of polyphenols (217±25.05 mg/g) and tannins (179.75±3.44 mg/g) were detected in the Ficus saussureana methanolic extract, whereas the highest amounts of flavonoids (28.75±0.98 mg/g), saponins (225.07±4.11 mg/g), and alkaloids (116.15±3.73 mg/g) were detected in the Clerodendrum rotundifolium methanolic extract. GC-MS profiles revealed 14 compounds in Ficus saussureana and 30 compounds in Clerodendrum rotundifolium and Microglossa pyrifolia. Several of the identified compounds demonstrate pharmacological activities relevant to the treatment of diabetes, hypertension, and various other human ailments. This research validates the assertions of traditional herbalists concerning the three selected plants, uncovering compounds with potential antidiabetic and antihypertensive properties. These findings not only support their traditional use but also highlight their potential for future drug discovery