Phytochemical screening of Bottlebrush tree (Callistemon Citrinus) as a medicinal plant.

Abstract

In this study, the phytochemical screening of the bark of Callistemon citirnus was done. Brix refractometry tests and UV-Vis spectroscopy were used in the identification of the phytochemicals. Bulk bark samples were air-dried, ground and subjected to maceration using methanol and dichloromethane as solvents for extraction for 48 hours in a dark room at room temperature. Qualitative phytochemical tests revealed a strong presence of tannins, low levels of flavonoids, saponins and terpenoids and an absence of alkaloids. Brix analysis of the methanolic extract provided Brix values in the range 69.7- 69.98oBx with a mean of 69.90oBx. This showed that there was a high concentration of dissolved phytochemicals. UV-Vis spectral analysis exhibited a prominent absorption peak at approximately 270 nm, a broad band extending from 354 to 440 nm and additional absorbance variation in the 240-280 nm range corresponding to arene benzoid systems and π’nπ* transitions typical of flavanoid structures. The study supported the medicinal relevance of Callistemon citrinus particularly due to its tannin and flavanoid content which are associated with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.