Phytochemical, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Studies of the Leaves of Uvaria chamae (P. Beauv)

This study investigates the phytochemical composition, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities of the methanol leaf extract of Uvaria chamae (P. Beauv). The antimicrobial and antioxidant properties were evaluated using agar disk-diffusion, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and Potassium Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (PFRAP) assays. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of saponins, flavonoids, carbohydrates, tannins, alkaloids, and terpenoids. The extract demonstrated strong antioxidant activity with significant radical scavenging potential comparable to standard ascorbic acid. Antimicrobial results indicated concentration-dependent inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These findings validate the ethnomedicinal use of Uvaria chamae and suggest its potential as a source of natural antioxidants and antimicrobial agents for managing multidrug-resistant infections.