Phytochemical Analysis, Toxicity Evaluation, and Antioxidant Activity of Strobilanthes reptans (Red Flame) Leaf Extract

Strobilanthes reptans (Red Flame), a member of the family Acanthaceae, is traditionally utilized in local medicinal practices but remains scientifically underexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition, antioxidant potential, and toxicity profile of the ethanolic leaf extract of S. reptans. Qualitative phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, phenolics, tannins, alkaloids, saponins, and steroids. Antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH radical scavenging assay, yielding an IC50 value of 101.3 ppm, indicating strong free radical scavenging capacity. Toxicity evaluation via Brine Shrimp Lethality Assay (Artemia salina) produced an LC50 value of 223.9 ppm, classifying the extract as moderately toxic. The findings demonstrate that S. reptans contains bioactive secondary metabolites with significant antioxidant activity and measurable cytotoxic potential. These results support its potential for further pharmacological investigation and development as a natural therapeutic resource.