Phytochemical Screening and Gc-Ms Profile of Melastomastrum Capitatum A. and R. Fern. Methanol Root Extract for Bioactive Anti-Brain Tumor Compounds

Medicinal plants are a valuable source for both traditional and modern medicine, with approximately 80% of the rural population relying on them for primary healthcare [1].Despite significant advancements in synthetic organic medicinal products in the twentieth century, more than a quarter of the medications prescribed in developed nations still originate from plants.These plants have been recognized for thousands of years and are highly regarded worldwide as abundant sources of therapeutic agents for disease prevention and treatment.According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around four billion people, 80% of the global population, utilize herbal medicines as part of their primary healthcare [2].Various compounds can be extracted and analyzed from plants for research and the development of new pharmaceutical treatments.However, a major challenge for researchers is that a single plant may contain numerous bioactive compounds.Identifying these compounds and understanding their biological activities is essential for clarifying issues related to toxicity, side effects, proper dosages, and effective extraction techniques [3].Melastomastrum capitatum is a shrub that can reach heights of up to 1.25 meters, typically found in dry areas and along stream banks in Nigeria, particularly on the Mambila Plateau in Taraba State [4].The Fulani tribe in this region refers to it as "Belkon" and utilizes its leaves in traditional medicine for treating cancer and various other ailments.The plant has a flavor that ranges from sweet to sour.In Ivory Coast, a diluted leaf sap is used as a sedative.Additionally, its leaves are known in traditional medicine to lower cholesterol, provide pain relief, and cleanse blood vessels.In the southern