Phytochemical composition, antioxidant activity and antimicrobial efficacy of ethyl acetate extract-derived Fraction (FE1) from Ficus exasperata Vahl Leaf

Abstract

The increasing prevalence of microbial resistance and oxidative stress-related diseases has driven the search for natural compounds with therapeutic potential. Ficus exasperata Vahl, commonly used in traditional medicine, is believed to possess bioactive properties worth investigating. This study aimed to identify the chemical constituents of Ficus exasperata leaf extract and evaluate its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, focusing on a key ethyl acetate-derived fraction (FE1). Ficus exasperata leaves were sequentially extracted using methanol, ethyl acetate, chloroform, and hexane. Fraction FE1, isolated from the methanolic extract, was characterized using UV, FT-IR, and GC-MS techniques. Antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH radical scavenging and ferric-ion-reducing power assays. Antimicrobial efficacy was tested against Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, and Candida tropicalis using the agar well diffusion method. The UV and FT-IR analyses of FE1 identified hydroxyl and carbonyl groups, suggesting the presence of bioactive fatty acids. GC-MS confirmed hexadecanoic acid (palmitic acid) as the major component, along with nonadecane and 2-pentadecanone. The FE1 exhibited moderate antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ = 87.623 ± 0.65 μg/mL) and strong antimicrobial effects, particularly against E. coli (35 mm), P. mirabilis (30 mm), and C. tropicalis (25 mm). The FE1 from Ficus exasperata shows significant antimicrobial and antioxidant potential, making it a promising candidate for novel therapeutic development. Further research should explore its mechanisms of action and possible applications in combination therapies.