Phytochemicals Profiling, FTIR Characterization, and GCMS Analysis of Jatropha tanjorensis Roots: Antimicrobial Potential of Solvent Extracts

Abstract

Jatropha tanjorensis is a medicinal plant traditionally used for various therapeutic purposes. The root extract has shown promising antimicrobial properties, but comprehensive phytochemical and spectroscopic analysis remains limited. This study aimed to investigate the phytochemical composition, structural characterization, and antimicrobial activity of ethanol extract from Jatropha tanjorensis roots. Phytochemical screening was conducted using standard qualitative methods. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) were employed for structural characterization and compound identification. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated against Salmonella species and Staphylococcus aureus using disc diffusion method, with determination of Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC). Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of phenols, alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, carotenoids, steroids, and terpenoids. FTIR analysis identified twelve distinct functional groups with characteristic peaks. GC-MS analysis revealed 26 bioactive compounds, with azulene derivative being the most abundant (31.39%), followed by 9,12,15-octadecatrienoic acid ethyl ester (10.63%) and hexadecanoic acid ethyl ester (9.71%). The extract demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity against both test organisms, with higher efficacy against Salmonella species than Staphylococcus aureus. Jatropha tanjorensis root extract contains diverse bioactive compounds with notable antimicrobial properties, supporting its traditional medicinal use and potential for pharmaceutical applications.

Keywords: Jatropha tanjorensis, phytochemicals, FTIR, GC-MS, antimicrobial activity, medicinal plants