Ehretia microphylla Lam.: unveiling pharmacognostic, physicochemical, phytochemical and toxicity insights

To establish a comprehensive pharmacognostic, physicochemical, phytochemical characteristics analysis and toxicity potential of Ehretia microphylla leaves.

The phytochemical profile of medicinal plants varies with environmental and climatic factors making the preliminary analysis essential. This study is the first to report the GC-MS profile and toxicity using brine shrimp lethality assay of E. microphylla leaves contributing new data on its phytochemical profile and toxicity profile supporting its safety and potential for herbal drug development.

Organoleptic and fluorescence analyses were conducted to determine sensory and chemical properties. Physicochemical parameters such as ash values, extractable values and moisture content were measured. Phytochemical profiling was carried out using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. Toxicity was evaluated using brine shrimp lethality assay and the IC₅₀ was determined.

The sample exhibited army green color, characteristic odor, bitter taste and coarse texture in organoleptic analysis. Fluorescence analysis showed the sample with changes from green to pink on UV and visible light. The physicochemical evaluation also established the standard values of ash content, extractive values and moisture content. GC-MS revealed 32 bioactive compounds. The brine shrimp lethality assay indicated moderate toxic activity with an IC₅₀ of 472.24 µg/mL according Meyer's cytotoxicity index.

This study presents a detailed scientific profile of E. microphylla leaves, which gives evidence for their potency as potential therapeutic agents. The findings validate the traditional medicinal applications and provide a basis for drug development studies in the future.