Phytochemical Characterization and Bioactive Potential of Stachys germanica L.: LC-MS/MS Profiling and Multi-Target...

Area of Science:

• Phytochemistry and Natural Product Chemistry
• Pharmacology and Therapeutics

Background:

• Stachys germanica L. (Lamiaceae family) is traditionally known for its bioactive secondary metabolites.
• Understanding the phytochemical profile and biological activities of S. germanica is crucial for exploring its therapeutic potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the phytochemical composition of an 80% ethanolic extract of S. germanica.
• To evaluate the biological potential, including antioxidant, enzyme inhibitory, and antimicrobial activities, of the S. germanica extract.

Main Methods:

• Spectrophotometric assays were employed to determine phenolic and flavonoid content and antioxidant activity (CUPRAC, ABTS, FRAP, DPPH).
• Enzyme inhibition assays were conducted for tyrosinase and α-glucosidase.
• Antimicrobial activity was assessed against Acinetobacter baumannii, and phytochemical profiling was performed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).

Main Results:

• The extract demonstrated high phenolic (59.80 mg GAE/g) and flavonoid (20.50 mg RE/g) content with significant antioxidant capacity.
• Pronounced inhibitory activity was observed against tyrosinase (62.23 mg KAE/g) and α-glucosidase (1.05 mmol ACAE/g).
• Significant antimicrobial activity was noted against Acinetobacter baumannii (MIC: 97 μg/mL). LC-MS/MS identified chlorogenic acid, naringin, luteolin, and kaempferol as major components.

Conclusions:

• The phytochemical analysis confirms a rich phenolic and flavonoid composition in S. germanica extract.
• The extract exhibits potent antioxidant, selective enzyme inhibitory, and notable antimicrobial activities.
• These findings support the potential application of S. germanica as a natural source for food, nutraceutical, and functional products.