Phytochemical Screening of Ethanol Extract of Muntingia calabura L Leaves and Antioxidant Activity Test

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the secondary metabolite content and antioxidant activity of the ethanolic extract of kersen leaves (Muntingia calabura L.) as a natural source of antioxidants. The background of this research is based on the high potential of plant bioactive compounds in counteracting free radicals that can cause cellular damage and trigger various degenerative diseases. The research process began with the preparation of kersen leaves, which were dried, pulverized, and extracted using the maceration method with 96% ethanol as the solvent for 3×24 hours. The obtained extract was then concentrated using a rotary evaporator to produce a viscous extract, which was subsequently used for phytochemical screening and antioxidant activity assays. Phytochemical screening was conducted to identify secondary metabolites using several specific reagents. The results showed that the ethanolic extract of kersen leaves tested positive for alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and steroids, while terpenoids showed negative results. The presence of these secondary metabolites indicates potential biological activity, particularly in free radical scavenging. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using the FRAP method based on the ability of compounds to reduce Fe³⁺ to Fe²⁺, measured at a wavelength of 595 nm. The results demonstrated that the kersen leaf extract exhibited very strong antioxidant activity, as indicated by an EC₅₀ value of 22.47882, reflecting significant reducing power. Overall, the ethanolic extract of kersen leaves has potential as a natural antioxidant source and supports further research on its application in the health and pharmaceutical fields.