ANALYSIS OF PHYTOCHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS IN ACETONE EXTRACT OF CITRULLUS COLOCYNTHIS (L.) SCHRAD RIND
Abstract
Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad, commonly known as bitter apple, is a desert plant traditionally valued for its medicinal properties. While much research has emphasized the seeds and pulp, this study explores the underutilized rind for its phytochemical potential. The rind, often discarded as waste, was investigated to determine its phytochemical composition using acetone as an extraction solvent.The dried rind was pulverized and extracted via maceration in acetone. Qualitative screening revealed the presence of diverse phytochemicals including flavonoids, phenols, alkaloids, tannins, saponins and steroids. Quantitative assays further confirmed significant levels of total phenols up to 66.33 ± 4.46 mg (GAE/g DW), followed by flavonoids 49.39± 19.50 (mg Rutin/g DW) and the least was reducing sugar 28.28 ± 1.65 (units/gDW). The study also demonstrated that phytochemical concentration increased with extract dose, indicating a dose-dependent response. These findings suggest that the rind of C. colocynthis is rich in bioactive compounds with promising pharmacological benefits such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. The study concludes that this often-overlooked part of the plant has substantial potential for use in health products and pharmaceutical formulations.
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