Phytochemical Profiling and Network Pharmacology-Based Evaluation of Aphrodisiac Potential of Mirabilis jalapa L. Root Extract

Mirabilis jalapa L., (Gul Abbas or Four o’clock) is a traditional medicinal plant belonging to the family Nyctaginaceae. Originally native to tropical South America, particularly Peru, it has now become naturalized across various tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Historically valued in folk medicine systems, M. jalapa has been utilized for its diverse therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, diuretic, laxative, and aphrodisiac effects. The root of the plant, in particular, has garnered interest due to its high concentration of bioactive phytochemicals, making it a promising candidate for pharmacological research. This study focuses on evaluating the aphrodisiac potential of M. jalapa root extract using a multidisciplinary approach combining phytochemical screening, antioxidant evaluation, thin-layer chromatography, LC-MS-based metabolite profiling, and network pharmacology analysis. The methanolic extract of M. jalapa root demonstrated a significant yield and was found to contain key phytoconstituents such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, alkaloids, and glycoside compounds known for their roles in sexual health and vascular function. Antioxidant assays confirmed the extract’s strong radical scavenging ability, indicating potential protective effects against oxidative stress, a known contributor to sexual dysfunction. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis identified several bioactive molecules like quercetin, rutin, ferulic acid, coumaric acid, isoquercitrin, apigenin etc. Furthermore, network pharmacology mapped the interactions between these compounds and genes (TP53, APP, IL1B, IGF1, CYP19A1, STAT3, TNF etc.) implicated in reproductive and hormonal pathways via regulation of nitric oxide production, hormones, and cell proliferation. Gene ontology and disease enrichment analyses reinforced the association with sexual health mechanisms. This integrated study scientifically validates the traditional claims of M. jalapa aphrodisiac potential and establishes a foundational basis for its future development as a safe and effective herbal therapeutic for sexual dysfunction.