GC-MS Analysis and Quantification of Some Secondary Metabolites of the Algerian Phragmites australis Leaf Extract and Their Biological Activities

Abstract

This study aims to assess the biological impacts and phytochemical compounds present in the leaves of Phragmites australis. Standard protocols were used for qualitative and quantitative chemical screening, where DPPH and FRAP assays were used to estimate the antioxidant activity. Regarding the anti-inflammatory potential, it was tested through the red blood cells' protection against hemolysis and the protection of protein from denaturation. Using GC-MS, volatile compounds can be identified. Results show that more than 200 volatile compounds in this plant were identified by the GC-MS analysis including 1-Dodecanol (48.25%), Pyrazine, tetramethyl (1.28%), Heptadecane, 2,6,10,15-tetramethyl (0.91%), Cyclopentasiloxane, decamethyl (0.93%) and Cyclotetrasiloxane, octamethyl (0.56%). Qualitative phytochemical tests show the richness of the aqueous extract of different biocompounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, terpenoids, tannins, and alkaloids. Total phenolic content and total flavonoids exhibit paramount concentration (70,74±1,94 mg GA eq/ g dry extract and 3,64±0,98 mg Q eq/ g dry extract). Results reveal a moderate antioxidant activity compared to the anti-inflammatory one whose values are prominent. We conclude that P. australis is a promising source of bioactive compounds that could be exploited in the pharmaceutical field.