Quantitative and Qualitative Phytochemical Analysis of Ethanoic Leaf Extract of Mentha piperita

Abstract

Mentha piperita (peppermint) is a widely used medicinal plant known for its therapeutic properties, yet its neurobiological and toxicological safety profile remains under-explored in animal models. This study investigates the phytochemical constituents, elemental composition, and acute toxicity (LD₅₀) of ethanolic leaf extract of Mentha piperita, with implications for its neuropharmacological safety and efficacy. Fresh Mentha piperita leaves were collected, authenticated, and subjected to ethanolic extraction. Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analyses were performed using Gas Chromatography (GC). Elemental analysis was conducted using Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (FAAS). Acute toxicity was assessed using a modified Lorke’s method on Wistar rats, with extract doses ranging from 10 to 5000 mg/kg body weight administered orally. The phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of bioactive compounds including ammodendrine (22.07 µg/ml), cyanogenic glycosides (20.19 µg/ml), proanthocyanidins (10.48 µg/ml), naringenin (7.43 µg/ml), tannins (12.00 µg/ml), and alkaloids such as spermatine (15.97 ng/ml). Elemental analysis indicated high concentrations of chloride (87.40 mg/L), alongside sodium (33.65 mg/L), potassium (29.74 mg/L), calcium (25.89 mg/L), and phosphate (21.08 mg/L). No mortality or observable signs of toxicity were recorded at doses up to 5000 mg/kg, indicating an LD₅₀ > 5000 mg/kg. The ethanolic extract of Mentha piperita contains significant levels of phytochemicals and essential elements with no observable acute toxicity in Wistar rats up to 5000mg/kg, suggesting its safety for potential pharmacological and nutraceutical applications. These findings support its traditional use and provide a basis for further neurobiological and therapeutic investigations.