GC-MS Analysis, Total Phenolic Content, and DPPH Radical Scavenging Activity of Ricinodendron heudelotii (Akpi) Seeds

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Ricinodendron heudelotii (Akpi) is a medicinal plant traditionally used in West and Central Africa to treat inflammation, malaria, and digestive disorders. While its leaves and bark have been studied, the seeds—particularly non-polar extracts—remain largely unexplored.

Objective: This study investigated the phytochemical composition, volatile constituents, total phenolic content, and antioxidant activity of the seeds extract.

Methods: Dried seeds were sequentially extracted with hexane and 70% ethanol. Phytochemical screening was performed using standard qualitative tests. Hexane extract was analyzed by GC-MS to identify volatile compounds. Total phenolic content (TPC) was measured using the Folin-Ciocalteu method. Antioxidant activity was evaluated through DPPH radical scavenging and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) assays.

Results: The ethanol extract tested positive for flavonoids, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, terpenoids, and volatile oils. GC-MS analysis of the hexane extract revealed methyl palmitate (9.71%) and methyl stearate (11.17%) as major constituents. The extract showed a TPC of 29.65 ± 1.18 mg GAE/g, a DPPH IC50 of 64.51 μg/mL (95% CI: 44.28 - 119.0 μg/mL), and a T-AOC of 23.91 ± 0.37 U/mg protein. Ascorbic acid (0.1 mM) exhibited a DPPH IC50 of 14.70 μg/mL (95% CI: 10.41 - 19.83 μg/mL) and a T-AOC of 45.62 ± 2.14 U/mg protein. Pearson correlation analysis revealed a strong positive correlation between DPPH activity and T-AOC for ascorbic acid (r = 0.9998, p = 0.0141), while the extract showed a moderate non-significant correlation (r = 0.500, p = 0.667).

Conclusion: R. heudelotii seeds possess significant antioxidant activity, supporting their traditional medicinal use and potential as a natural source of bioactive compounds for nutraceutical applications.