Phytochemical profile and physicochemical analysis of the leaves of Ziziphus mauritiana

Ziziphus mauritiana Lam. (Indian jujube) is traditionally used to treat asthma, digestive disorders, skin conditions, and ulcers. Despite its wide medicinal applications, comprehensive phytochemical and physicochemical profiling of Z. mauritiana leaves remains limited. The current study aimed to establish a detailed phytochemical and physicochemical profile of Z. mauritiana leaves across different solvent extracts to aid in standardization and quality control. Fresh Z. mauritiana leaves were collected, authenticated, dried, and powdered. Soxhlet extraction was performed using seven solvents: acetone, water, chloroform, dichloromethane, ethanol, ethyl acetate, and petroleum ether. Physicochemical analyses included ash content, extractive values, moisture content, and pH. Qualitative phytochemical screening was conducted to identify bioactive compounds such as carbohydrates, proteins, flavonoids, tannins, and alkaloids. Physicochemical analysis revealed total ash (7.5%), acid-insoluble ash (2.5%), and moisture content (7.3%). Extractive values varied across solvents, with ethyl acetate showing the highest yield (0.76%). Phytochemical screening demonstrated the presence of carbohydrates, proteins, amino acids, steroids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, tannins, glycosides, and alkaloids, with variation across solvents. Z. mauritiana leaves exhibit a diverse range of bioactive compounds with potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities, supporting their traditional medicinal use. Future research should focus on quantifying these compounds using advanced analytical methods and exploring other plant parts for a comprehensive profile.