GC-MS-Based Phytochemical Characterisation and in vitro Evaluation of the Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Activity of Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Nees

Abstract

The present study evaluated the phytochemical constituents, GC-MS profile, and in vitro antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of the methanol extract of Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Nees. Phytochemical constituents were quantified using standard analytical methods, while volatile compounds were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The antidiabetic activity of the extract was evaluated using in vitro α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory assays, whereas its antioxidant potential was assessed using DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging assays. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of appreciable amounts of total phenols (19.10 ± 0.00), total flavonoids (18.53 ± 0.06), total alkaloids (23.15 ± 0.56), and total tannins (4.64 ± 0.11). GC-MS analysis identified more than 30 volatile compounds, among which neophytadiene (29.42%), ergost-5-en-3-ol (10.57%), and 9-octadecenoic acid (7.89%) were the predominant constituents. The methanol extract exhibited remarkable antioxidant activity, comparable to that of the standard antioxidant (ascorbic acid). Furthermore, the extract demonstrated concentration-dependent inhibitory activities against both α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes, indicating promising antidiabetic potential. The presence of both volatile and non-volatile phytochemicals in A. paniculata may contribute to its observed biological activities and supports its traditional medicinal use. These findings suggest that the methanol extract of A. paniculata represents a promising source of natural antioxidant and antidiabetic agents. However, further in vivo studies and comprehensive toxicological evaluations are required to establish its efficacy, safety, and therapeutic potential.