Phytochemical Profiling, Optimization of Extraction Methods, and Biological Activities of Buxus sempervirens Leaves

Abstract

The leaves of Buxus sempervirens contain numerous phytochemicals, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins that possess significant medicinal properties and also have industrial uses. This study was conducted to identify optimum conditions for extracting bioactive compounds from the plant and to assess their biological activities. The bioactive compounds were extracted from the leaves of B. sempervirens using Soxhlet extraction by employing ethanol and methanol as solvents. For phytochemical profiling, thin-layer chromatography, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, and high-performance liquid chromatography analyses were used. It was found that methanolic extraction produced the highest yields of alkaloids and flavonoids. Preliminary phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of tannins, saponins, and steroids. Furthermore, the extracts demonstrated a strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activity. Thus, optimization of the extraction process proved helpful in increasing the yield and improving the biological activity of the extracted phytochemical compounds. Hence, this study showed B. sempervirens as a rich source of various bioactive compounds that might find application in the field of pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and cosmetics.