Phytochemical Composition and Biological Evaluation of Daniellia oliveri Root Bark Extracts

Abstract

The research focused on examining the phytochemical components and biological properties of Daniellia oliveri (DO) root bark extracts. The study utilized quantitative phytochemical analysis and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) to identify the chemical constituents. Furthermore, the investigation included assessments of the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity and the antimicrobial effects against reference strains of bacteria. This research contributes to the understanding of the potential medicinal properties of Daniellia oliveri and its role in combating free radical species and microbial infectious diseases. The quantitative phytochemical analysis of the sample revealed the presence of various components including flavonoids, phenolics, alkaloids, saponins, and tannins. Furthermore, the GC-MS profiling identified thirty-two compounds, with notable proportions of 1-Isopropyl-4,7-dimethyl, 1-1,2,3,5-hexahydronaphthalene (21.73%), Hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester (6.8%), 1-Heptadecanamine (5.36%), α-Calacorene (5.52%), and Tridecane (4.45%). The sample also exhibited a DPPH radical inhibition effect with a comparative IC₅₀ value of 0.58 µg/mL, when compared to the synthetic reference compound with an IC50 value of 0.1 µg/mL. The antibacterial evaluation of DA root extract on some Gram positive strains; B.stearothermophilus, C. sporogenes, B. cereus, B. subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, M.luteus,, displayed moderate  growth inhibition and bactericidal action toward B.stearothermophilus. B. cereus, M.luteus strains only. However, displayed a non-inhibitory effect toward Gram negative strains (P.aureginosa and K.pneumoniae) investigated. Hence, Daniellia oliveri displayed inhibitory effect on radical solution and reduced growth rate of bacterial colony, complementing the existing findings on the pharmacological effects of local herbs.