GC-MS and UV-visible Spectroscopic Analysis of Bioactive Phytochemical in Trigonella foenum-graecum Visible Spectroscopic

Background

Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) is a widely utilized medicinal herb known for its therapeutic potential in managing metabolic disorders. This study aimed to extract and characterise the bioactive constituents of fenugreek seeds using spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques.

Materials and Methods

Dried seed powder was subjected to Soxhlet extraction using ethanol and methanol solvents. Preliminary phytochemical screening of the crude extracts revealed the presence of significant secondary metabolites, including alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, and glycosides, while testing negative for anthraquinones. UV-visible spectrophotometric analysis of the diluted extracts demonstrated characteristic absorption peaks (λ_max) in the range of 200-400 nm, specifically at 265 nm and 320 nm, indicating the presence of conjugated unsaturated systems and phenolic compounds. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis was employed to identify specific volatile and semi-volatile constituents.

Results

The chromatogram revealed over 20 distinct peaks, with the mass spectra matching the NIST library database. Major identified compounds included n-Hexadecanoic acid (Palmitic acid), 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid (Linoleic acid), Squalene, and derivatives of 4- hydroxyisoleucine and Trigonelline.

Conclusion

The presence of these bioactive esters and fatty acids correlates with the plant's known antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hypoglycemic activities. These findings validate the traditional medicinal use of fenugreek and suggest its solvent extracts are a rich source of phytocompounds suitable for the development of novel nutraceutical formulations.