Integrative characterization of bioactive compounds in Homalium napaulense (Benth.) stem: a multi-analytical approach

Homalium napaulense (Benth.) is a tree belonging to the family Salicaceae with medicinal potential. Different parts of this plant are used to treat wound healing, stomach disorders, and puerperal fever. This study aimed to investigate the bioactive compounds present in different solvent extracts of the stem through qualitative or semi-quantitative phytochemical analysis using Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS). Furthermore, the study focused on identifying functional groups and evaluating the elemental composition of powdered stem samples by performing Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDX) analysis. GC–MS analysis revealed the presence of 148 compounds across all solvent extracts, among which 1, 2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, bis (2-methylpropyl) ester (a phthalate) was consistently identified in all extracts. FTIR absorption peaks revealed the presence of functional groups like C=O, C–O, C–H, O–H, and C=C. Furthermore, EDX microanalysis was employed to determine the elemental composition of the powdered stem sample (56.27% O, 37.86% C, 1.95% Ca, 1.03% F, and 0.26% Mg). Notably, this study is novel in its integrative approach, combining multiple advanced analytical techniques to comprehensively understand the chemical and elemental composition of the stem, which has not been previously reported in the literature.