Comprehensive analysis of phytochemical composition. Quantitative phenolic profiling by HPLC and assessment of antioxidant activity in Bassia indica

• Published in: Pure and applied biology Vol. 14; no. 2; pp. 82 - 93
• Main Author: Rashid, Muhammad
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Quetta International Society of Pure and Applied Biology 10.06.2025
• Subjects: Amino acids; Antioxidants; Arid regions; Arid zones; Bassia; Bioactive compounds; Biological activity; Carbohydrates; Chemical composition; Chromatography; Clinical trials; Flavonoids; Formulations; Glycosides; Hexanes; High performance liquid chromatography; Iodine; Liquid chromatography; Medical research; Metabolites; n-Hexane; Optimization; Oxidative stress; Pharmaceuticals; Phenols; Phloroglucinol; Phytochemicals; Public awareness; Qualitative analysis; Resource management; Saponins; Semi arid areas; Semiarid zones; Sensors; Solvents; Statistical analysis; Steroid hormones; Steroids; Terpenes; Therapeutic applications; Variance analysis; Australia; Asia; Africa
• ISSN: 2304-2478; 2304-2478
• DOI: 10.19045/bspab.2025.140010

Bassia indica, commonly known as Indian bassia or wild spinach, is a plant widely distributed across arid and semi-arid regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia, with a rich history of traditional uses in cultural and medicinal contexts. This study investigates the chemical composition and health benefits of Bassia indica, focusing on its phenolic compounds renowned for diverse bioactive properties. The research responds to increasing interest in natural antioxidants for medical, nutritional, and pharmaceutical applications. Fresh leaves of Bassia indica underwent qualitative phytochemical analysis, revealing the presence of alkaloids, steroids, flavonoids, terpenoids, tannins, saponins, glycosides, amino acids, phenolic compounds, carbohydrates, and iodine in various solvent extracts. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) quantification identified ten distinct phenolic compounds, with Phloroglucinol predominating in methanol extracts. Antioxidant activity assessed by the 2,2-diphenyl-l-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay showed varying levels of inhibition in ethanolic, acetonic, and n-hexane extracts. The study underscores Bassia indica rich phytochemical profile and potential therapeutic applications, advocating for its conservation and further exploration in healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors. Future research should focus on isolating bioactive compounds, conducting clinical trials, developing formulations, and optimizing cultivation practices to harness its full potential. Interdisciplinary collaboration, regulatory compliance, and public awareness initiatives are crucial for maximizing the benefits of Bassia indica while ensuring sustainable resource management.