Phytochemical Composition and Therapeutic Potential of Ethanol Leaf Extract of Annona Muricata from Nigeria Using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry

Annona muricata (Annonaceae) commonly known as soursop or graviola, is a medicinal plant extensively used in traditional medicine for the management of cancer, inflammation, infections, and metabolic disorders. This study investigated the phytochemical composition of A. muricata leaf extract using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS) and discussed the medicinal relevance of the identified compounds. GC–MS analysis revealed nineteen phytochemical constituents belonging to fatty acids, terpenoids, phenolics, tocopherols, alkynes, nitrogen-containing heterocycles, and long‑chain hydrocarbon sterols, and hydrocarbons. Gamma-sitostenone and vitamin E were the predominant compounds with a percentage peak of (35.55% and 14.09%) respectively. Neophytadiene, 9-octadecenoic acid, 4-campestene-3-one, and n-hexadecanoic acid. Showed a percentage of (5.13%, 5.43%, 5.24% and 4.18%) respectively. Futhermore, the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, and cardioprotective potential of A. muricata are evident in the Phytochemical found in its leaf. Evidence suggests that γ-sitostenone exhibit significant anti-inflammatory activity, while Vitamin E is widely known for its strong antioxidant activity. 9-Octadecenoic acid demonstrates cardioprotective potential, furthermore, neophytadiene and 4-campestene-3-one have been associated with notable antimicrobial and anticancer activities. Overall, these findings underscore the therapeutic relevance of Annona muricata leaf extract, particularly in relation to the diverse bioactive compounds responsible for its medicinal properties.