Phytochemical
screening, antioxidant and anticancer properties of Saraca asoca (Roxb.) Willd
Sija S.L., Reshmi S. and Athira T.S.
Res. J. Biotech.; Vol. 21(1); 108-117;
doi: https://doi.org/10.25303/211rjbt1080117; (2026)
Abstract
The current research investigates the phytochemical composition, antioxidant capabilities
and anticancer effects of methanol extracts from different parts (flowers and leaves)
of Saraca asoca. Phytochemical screening indicated the presence of carbohydrates,
alkaloids, saponins, resins, phenols, steroids, glycosides and flavonoids in the
methanol extracts. Quantitative analysis revealed higher levels of alkaloids and
total phenols in the methanol extracts from the leaves compared to those from the
flowers. The extracts from Saraca asoca leaves exhibited stronger reducing power
activity than those from flowers, as measured spectrophotometrically using quercetin
(10mg/mL DMSO) as a standard compound. Both extracts showed a dose-dependent decrease
in cell viability when tested against the human ovarian cancer cell line SKOV-3.
This study underscores Saraca asoca's richness in phytochemicals, highlighting its
potential as a natural source of antioxidants and its promising anticancer properties.
These findings support its traditional use in treating various human ailments, suggesting
potential for future isolation and medical application of its phytochemicals.
