Exploring the antimicrobial properties of Bryophyllum pinnatum leaf through phytochemical investigation and a bibliometric analysis

The increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance has intensified the search for alternative therapeutic agents from natural sources. This study conducted a bibliometric analysis based on Scopus data and VOSviewer mapping until 2025, and the qualitative and quantitative phytochemical composition, functional group determination, and antimicrobial potential of the ethanolic leaf extract of Bryophyllum pinnatum, a medicinal plant widely used in traditional medicine. Fresh leaves were collected, authenticated, extracted using ethanol, and subjected to qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analyses using standard procedures. Antimicrobial activity of the extract was evaluated against selected bacterial pathogens (Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella typhi) and fungal (Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, and Tinea capitis) pathogens using the agar well diffusion method. The extract was further subjected to FTIR characterization. Qualitative screening revealed the presence of saponins, carbohydrates, tannins, flavonoids, alkaloids, steroids, triterpenes, terpenoids, and cardiac glycosides, while anthraquinones were absent. Quantitative analysis showed flavonoids as the most abundant phytochemical (110 mg/g), followed by steroids (70 mg/g), terpenoids (40 mg/g), alkaloids (40 mg/g), and cardiac glycosides (30 mg/g). FTIR spectrum indicated the presence of prominent functional groups such as O–H, C–H, N–O, C=O, and C=C (aromatic), confirming the presence of phenolics, alcohols, aromatics, and other bioactive compounds. The predominance of flavonoids and the presence of other pharmacologically relevant compounds may account for the observed antimicrobial activity against selected bacterial and fungal pathogens These results provide scientific support for the traditional use of B. pinnatum and highlight its potential as a source of bioactive compounds for new antimicrobial drug discovery