Phytochemical Composition and Multifunctional Bioactivities of <i>Berchemia discolor</i> Leaf Extract: Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Potential

Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition and in vitro bioactivities of Berchemia discolor methanolic leaf extract, focusing on antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. Material and Methods The methanolic extract of B. discolor leaves was analyzed for phytochemical content, including phenolics and flavonoids. Antimicrobial activity was assessed using agar well diffusion and broth microdilution methods against bacterial and fungal strains. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), reducing power, and total antioxidant capacity assays. Anti-inflammatory activity was determined through COX-2 inhibition assay. Results The extract showed high levels of phenolics (134.99 mg GAE g -1 ) and flavonoids (57.47 mg QE g -1 ). It exhibited broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity with MIC values as low as 312.5 µg mL -1 . Strong antioxidant activity was observed 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH IC50 = 29.28 µg mL -1 ), along with significant COX-2 inhibition (IC50 = 30.09 µg mL -1 ). Conclusion The findings demonstrate that B. discolor is a promising natural source of antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory agents, supporting its traditional medicinal use.