Microscopic studies, phytochemical, mineral composition, and antioxidant activity of the stem bark of Ganophyllum giganteum (A. Chev.) Hauman (Sapindaceae) from the Ebola River Basin, Nord Ubangi, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Introduction Traditional uses of Ganophyllum giganteum (A. Chev.) Hauman and previous studies suggest that this plant may contain secondary metabolites with medicinal properties. The plant has been historically utilized for various therapeutic purposes, yet scientific exploration of its chemical and biological characteristics remains limited. Purpose This study aims to identify the secondary metabolites present in the stem bark of Ganophyllum giganteum (A. Chev.) Hauman, examine its histological elements, determine its mineral composition, and assess its antioxidant activity. Methods The study employed microscopic examination to identify histological features, phytochemical analysis to characterize secondary metabolites, and mineral analysis using a PHYWE 4.0 X-ray diffractometer. Antioxidant activity was assessed using ABTS•+ and DPPH assays, with both aqueous and ethanolic extracts of the plant tested. Results Microscopic analysis revealed histological elements such as fibre fragments and palisading parenchyma in the stem bark. The phytochemical profile identified a variety of secondary metabolites, including polyphenols, anthocyanins, leuco-anthocyanins, flavonoids, alkaloids, quinones, tannins, saponins, triterpenes, and steroids. The antioxidant activity results showed that both aqueous and ethanolic extracts exhibited significant antioxidant power, with the ethanolic extract demonstrating the highest activity (IC50 = 0.71±0.00 μg/mL) compared to the aqueous extract (IC50 = 15.93±2.57 μg/mL) and the control (quercetin, IC50 = 3.21±0.99 μg/mL). The mineral composition analysis indicated the presence of essential elements such as calcium, potassium, phosphorus, selenium, iron, vanadium, manganese, copper, zinc, silica, sulphur, cobalt, and cadmium. Conclusion The study provides scientific evidence validating the traditional use of Ganophyllum giganteum (A. Chev.) Hauman for medicinal purposes. The plant's rich chemical composition and notable antioxidant and antimicrobial activities highlight its potential as a source for developing drugs and nutraceuticals. These findings underscore the plant’s potential role in managing diseases and contribute to future research in the development of therapeutic agents based on this plant.