PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING AND GC-MS ANALYSIS OF BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS PRESENT IN ETHANOLIC EXTRACTS OF FLOWERS OF CLITORIA TERNATEA LINN.

Abstract

Clitoria ternatea Linn, commonly known as butterfly pea, is a medicinal plant widely recognized for its therapeutic properties. This study aimed to investigate the phytochemical constituents and bioactive compounds present in the ethanolic extract of Clitoria ternatea flowers using phytochemical screening and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, terpenoids, and phenolic compounds which are known for their diverse pharmacological activities. GC-MS analysis identified several bioactive compounds, including Lidocaine, Campesterol, Squalene, Phytol, Eicosanic acid which contribute to the plant's anti-cancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and neuroprotective properties. The findings suggest that the ethanolic extract of Clitoria ternatea flowers is a rich source of bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic applications, indicating further investigation into its pharmacological and medicinal uses.