GC–MS Characterization, Phytochemical Screening, and Antimicrobial Activity of Andrographis Paniculata Leaf Extract

Abstract

Andrographis paniculata (king of bitters) leaf extract was investigated for its phytochemical constituents, chemical composition, and antimicrobial activity. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis revealed sixteen compounds represented by distinct peaks in the chromatogram. The major constituents identified included 2,3-dihydrobenzofuran, 4- methyloctane, 1-ethyl-2-methylbenzene, squalene, 3,6-dimethylundecane, and 2- methylbenzaldehyde. Among these, 2,3-dihydrobenzofuran was the most abundant constituent, accounting for 28.475% of the total detected compounds. The occurrence of this and other bioactive constituents suggests that the leaf extract may possess pharmacologically relevant properties. Preliminary phytochemical screening showed the presence of tannins, saponins, alkaloids, steroids, and cardiac glycosides. These secondary metabolites are widely associated with biological activities and may contribute to the therapeutic potential of the plant. The antimicrobial activity of the extract was evaluated against Aspergillus niger, Cladosporium species, Escherichia coli, and Streptococcus species. The extract exhibited moderate inhibitory activity against the test organisms, indicating that relatively higher concentrations may be required to achieve appreciable antimicrobial effects. Reduced activity observed at lower concentrations suggests concentration-dependent efficacy. The findings of this study demonstrate that Andrographis paniculata leaf extract contains diverse bioactive compounds with measurable antimicrobial activity. The combined GC–MS and phytochemical results support the potential of the plant as a natural source of biologically active constituents. However, further studies involving isolation of active compounds, toxicity evaluation, and detailed pharmacological investigations are necessary to establish its safety, efficacy, and possible therapeutic applications.

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