GC-MS analysis of phytochemical compounds in the crude methanolic extract of roots of <em>Murdannia</em> <em>lanuginosa</em> and <em>M.</em> <em>simplex</em> (Commelinaceae)

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to investigate the methanolic extract of the roots of <em>Murdannia</em> <em>lanuginosa</em> and <em>M.</em> <em>simplex</em> (Commelinaceae) for their phytochemical compounds using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The study reveals three compounds in <em>M. lanuginosa</em> and six compounds in <em>M. simplex</em> respectively. <em>M. lanuginosa</em> could be used for antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative activity due to the presence of secondary metabolites like 4H-Pyran-4-one, 2, 3-dihydro-3,5-dihydroxy-6-methyl (Retention time 8.659) in the methanolic extract. While <em>M</em>.<em> simplex</em> extracts may be used in the development of fungicidal agent due to the presence of Salicylaldehyde, Azine (Retention time 22.608) as a major compound which is known for its fungicidal activity. A further study in the present taxa and family Commelinaceae is warranted to determine active principle of the extract as well as to elucidate their exact mechanism of action in various disorders.