The phytochemical screening and antioxidant potential of the hydroethanolic extract of Chenopodium album L.

This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition, mineral content, and antioxidant potential of the hydroethanolic extract of Chenopodium album (CAHE). The mineral content was analyzed using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) with samples prepared by acid digestion. Phytochemical profiling was conducted using Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), employing a Supelco capillary column and helium as the carrier gas (1.21 mL/min). Mass spectra (m/z 40–600) were analyzed by matching with the NIST library. Bioactive compounds were identified based on the relative peak area and spectral comparisons. Antioxidant activity was evaluated through nitric oxide scavenging, DPPH radical scavenging, reducing power, and metal chelation assays, using ascorbic acid and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) as standards. AAS analysis revealed high concentrations of calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, phosphorus, sodium, and potassium, indicating the nutritional value of CAHE. GC-MS fingerprinting identified bioactive compounds such as linoleic acid ethyl ester, quercetin, and phytol, known for their antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, antioxidant assays demonstrated strong free radical scavenging activity. CAHE exhibited significant nitric oxide and DPPH radical scavenging activities compared to ascorbic acid and BHT, respectively, along with moderate metal chelating activity. These results highlight the potential of CAHE in combating diseases related to oxidative stress. The study confirms that C. album contains essential minerals and bioactive phytochemicals with potent antioxidant properties. Its capacity for free radical neutralization underscores its applicability in therapeutic and preventive healthcare products.