Pharmacognostic, FTIR-Based Phytochemical, Antioxidant, and Anthelmintic Evaluation of Ethyl Acetate Extracts from the Roots of Musa velutina H. Wendl. & Drude

Introduction: Musa velutina H. Wendl. & Drude is a lesser-known banana species with minimal scientific evaluation despite its ethnobotanical relevance. This study aimed to investigate its root extract for phytochemical content and biological activity. Methods: Ethyl acetate extract of Musa velutina roots was prepared by cold maceration. Pharmacognostic evaluation, FTIR spectroscopy, and qualitative phytochemical screening were conducted. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were determined using Folin–Ciocalteu and aluminium chloride assays, respectively. Antioxidant activity was assessed via the DPPH radical scavenging assay. Anthelmintic activity was evaluated against Eisenia fetida using standard in vitro protocols. Results: FTIR analysis revealed peaks indicating the presence of phenolic, alcoholic, aliphatic, aromatic, and ester functional groups. The extract showed considerable total phenolic and flavonoid content, expressed as 15.82 ± 0.76 mg GAE/g and 12.34 ± 0.58 mg QE/g dry extract, respectively. DPPH assay demonstrated significant antioxidant activity with an IC50 value of 72.61 μg/mL. In anthelmintic assays, the extract induced dose-dependent paralysis and death in earthworms, with the 100 mg/mL dose showing comparable efficacy to albendazole. Discussion: These findings indicate that Musa velutina root extract contains bioactive phytoconstituents with antioxidant and anthelmintic properties. Comparison with related Musa species confirms the reliability of the results. The FTIR spectrum supports the chemical complexity underlying the biological activity. Conclusion: The root extract of Musa velutina is rich in bioactive compounds with potent antioxidant and anthelmintic effects. These results highlight its potential as a novel pharmacological resource deserving further exploration.