Phytochemical Characterization of the Leaves of Saraca indica and Investigation of the Antimicrobial and the Antioxidant Properties of the Saponin-rich Extract of the Leaves

Abstract

Saraca indica commonly referred to as Ashoka tree in the Indian subcontinent, is screened for potential antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of the phytochemicals present in the leaves.  The leaves are rich in saponins as shown by the preliminary testing of phytochemicals.  Phytochemical profile of the saponin-rich extract of the leaves was obtained by using the GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectra) data which revealed a total of 30 bioactive compounds. The total saponin content was represented by 11 of these phytochemicals and they accounted for 73% of the total of the 30 bioactive compounds.  The extract of these phytochemicals with the predominant presence of saponins exhibited in-vitro antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Saponins are known to have properties to treat skin-related ailments and the leaves of Saraca indica can serve as an abundant herbal source of saponins.