Quantitative Profiling of Bioactive Compounds and Minerals in Zingiber officinale Extract Using HPLC-DAD and ICP-MS

Abstract

Zingiber officinale (ginger) is widely recognized for its diverse pharmacological properties and potential applications in nutraceutical formulations. However, comprehensive characterization of its phytochemical and elemental composition is essential for evaluating its quality, safety and therapeutic potential. The present study aimed to chemically characterize a dry extract of Z. officinale by determining its amino acid, flavonoid and elemental profiles. Quantitative phytochemical analysis was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode-array detection (HPLC-DAD), while elemental composition was assessed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The analysis revealed a total amino acid content of 13.80 ± 0.47 mg/g, with histidine being the predominant amino acid (5.38 ± 0.15 mg/g). Flavonoid profiling demonstrated notable concentrations of rosavin (8.10 ± 0.24 mg/g) and dihydroquercetin (6.11 ± 0.18 mg/g). Elemental analysis indicated appreciable levels of essential macrominerals, particularly potassium and magnesium, whereas the concentrations of potentially toxic heavy metals were within the established permissible limits for pharmaceutical applications. The findings demonstrate that Z. officinale dry extract contains a diverse array of bioactive constituents and essential minerals, supporting its potential use as a natural ingredient in nutraceutical and pharmaceutical formulations. The characterized phytochemical and elemental profile may further contribute to the development of ginger-based preparations with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and metabolic-support applications.