Biochemical Profiling and Bioactivity of Scutellaria linearis Extracts

The present study investigates the phytochemical, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties of Scutellaria linearis L. extracts. Aerial parts of the plant were extracted using methanol (SLCR), ethyl acetate (SLEA), n-hexane (SLNH), and distilled water (SLAQ). Qualitative phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, phenols, alkaloids, and carbohydrates in all extracts except the n-hexane fraction, which lacked alkaloids and carbohydrates. Quantitative analysis showed the highest levels of total phenolic content (TPC) and flavonoids (TFC) in the methanolic extract (SLCR). Antioxidant activity, assessed via DPPH and ABTS assays, indicated the strongest radical scavenging activity in SLCR (IC50: 65.17 µg/mL for ABTS and 67.53 µg/mL for DPPH). Antimicrobial testing demonstrated significant antibacterial and antifungal activity, with SLCR exhibiting the most potent inhibition against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well as fungal strains, comparable to standard antibiotics. These findings highlight the solvent-dependent extraction of bioactive compounds, particularly flavonoids, and support the ethnomedicinal use of S. linearis for its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The results underscore the potential of S. linearis as a natural source of therapeutic agents, warranting further exploration for pharmacological applications.