Effect of solvent extraction on phytochemical profile and quantification of bioactive compounds in Ocimum suave (wild)

Abstract

Seasonal aromatic Lamiaceae shrub Ocimum suave has insecticidal and therapeutic bioactive compounds. The plant's phytochemical profile and effective solvents for extraction have limited information, despite its potential as a sustainable pest management alternative. The phytochemical composition and quantification of solvent-extracted Ocimum suave leaves, stems, roots, and combined samples were examined. The plant samples were obtained at Dakawa-Mvomero. A laboratory-based experimental design was employed to assess the effect of different extraction solvents on the phytochemical profile and quantification of bioactive compounds in Ocimum suave. A completely randomized design (CRD) was used with three replications to minimize experimental error and increase the reliability of the results. Alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, terpenoids, and essential oils were detected in plant samples using methanol, dichloromethane (DCM), n-hexane, and distilled water-extraction solvents. Samples underwent standard quantification chemical tests. Saponins (p=0.027), essential oils (p=0.018), and alkaloids (0.018) showed significant differences. These findings demonstrate that solvent type significantly impacts compound extraction efficiency. Root tannins were concentrated at 3.51mg/l and stem at 3.36mg/l with methanol. Leaf, stem, and root terpenoids were highly concentrated in dichloromethane 7.20% and n-hexane 5.80% extracts. Dichloromethane 6.50%, methanol 6.20%, and n-hexane 6.10% concentrated essential oils from all plant parts. Saponins in roots, stems, and leaves were 5.60% concentrated with distilled water. N-hexane solvent concentrated leaf flavonoids (4.55%) and stem alkaloids (3.25%). The findings emphasise solvent choice in phytochemical yields and suggest Ocimum suave may be an eco-friendly pesticide.