Quantitative Assessment and Chemical Characterization of Secondary Metabolites from Ethnomedicinal Plant Bergenia ciliata using ATR-FTIR and NMR Techniques

Bergenia ciliata, an ethnomedicinal plant, is widely recognized for its therapeutic potential. This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive phytochemical screening and chemical characterization of its root and rhizome extracts using ATR-FTIR and NMR techniques. Preliminary qualitative phytochemical analysis was performed on extracts prepared in aqueous, ethyl acetate and methanol solvents to identify bioactive compounds. The presence of tannins, flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids, glycosides, steroids, terpenoids and other secondary metabolites was confirmed. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) was employed to determine the functional groups present in the extracts. The spectral analysis revealed key bioactive functional groups including hydroxyl (-OH), carbonyl (C=O), aliphatic nitriles (C≡N) and amides, which contribute to the medicinal properties of plant. Peaks corresponding to stretching and bending vibrations were identified, highlighting the presence of various phytochemical constituents. Furthermore, metabolite profiling using proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy provided insights into the chemical structure of bioactive compounds. Bergenin, a bioactive compound known for its pharmacological activities, was detected along with other secondary metabolites. The results of this study confirm the diverse phytochemical composition of Bergenia ciliata, supporting its traditional medicinal applications. The integration of ATR-FTIR and NMR spectroscopy provides a reliable approach for characterizing plant-based bioactive compounds, facilitating further study into their pharmacological properties and therapeutic applications.