Isolation, Identification and Functional Group Analysis of Averrhoa Carambola L. (Star Fruit) Leaves using FTIR Spectroscopy

Abstract

Introduction: In this research, the phytochemical content and bioactivity of Averrhoa carambola leaves, a medicinal plant species with therapeutic interest in traditional medicine are studied. The plant is rich in varied phytochemicals like terpenoids, flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenolic acids and has a broad spectrum of pharmacological activities. The work targets the identification and characterization of the bioactive constituents of Averrhoa carambola leaves by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The research supports its traditional medicinal applications.

Methods: Leaves of Averrhoa carambola were collected, dried, and subjected to extraction using the Soxhlet process with petroleum ether and ethanol as solvents in turn. Exhaustive phytochemical screening was performed to determine different classes of bioactive molecules. FTIR spectroscopy was utilized to characterize the functional groups of the ethanolic extracts. Biological activities, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, were also screened by conducting a battery of in vitro tests.

Results: Phytochemical screening validated the occurrence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, terpenoids, steroids, and carbohydrates. FTIR spectroscopy revealed major functional groups such as hydroxyl, carbonyl, and aromatic rings, signifying the occurrence of bioactive compounds. The plant extract showed strong antioxidant activity, with comparable results to standard antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory assays indicated a significant decrease in inflammatory markers.

Conclusion: This research confirms the potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of Averrhoa carambola leaves, supporting their traditional medicinal uses. The results highlight the merits of phytochemical investigation and sophisticated spectroscopic methods in authenticating and characterizing new natural medicines. The plant is richly endowed for the construction of science-based herbal drugs.