GC-MS Analysis of Five Commonly Used Herbal Formulations Sold in Anambra State, Southeast, Nigeria

Plant extracts have been known to possess multiple bioactive compounds with therapeutic uses. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used in the current study to characterize the bioactive constituents of five (5) commercially available herbal formulations. The National Institute of Standard Technology Database was used to analyze the mass spectrum of the five commonly available herbal formulations sold in Anambra State, Southeast, Nigeria. The GC-MS analysis showed the presence of thirty-five (35) bioactive compounds. The identified compounds were listed in the following order; Compound name, peak area (%), molecular weight, molecular formula, and biological activities. The bioactive compounds present include; Quinolone, Oleic acid, Hexadecanoic acid, Phenolic, Dodecanoic acid, and, phthalic acid which are believed to possess antiplasmodial, antimicrobial, antiviral, anticancer, antioxidant, and antifungal activities. This study confirmed that the five herbal formulations have rich bioactive compounds that could benefit mankind, although some of the synthetic compounds isolated are of major health concern.