Ultrasonic-Assisted Soxhlet Extraction, Phytochemical Screening, and HPLC Method Development for Apegenin Isolation from Hydroalcoholic Extract of 𝑇�𝑟�𝑖�𝑑�𝑎�𝑥� 𝑃�𝑟�𝑜�𝑐�𝑢�𝑚�𝑏�𝑒�𝑛�𝑠�

Abstract

Tridax procumbens is a medicinal plant extensively utilized in traditional medicine because of its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. Extraction and phytochemical analysis of T. procumbens seeks to determine its bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenoids. Apigenin is a significant flavonoid that has been isolated to assess its therapeutic capabilities. Since this plant possesses potential anti-inflammatory properties, we aimed to isolate and develop apigenin as one of its key bioactive constituents. Ultrasonic-assisted Soxhlet extraction of T. procumbens leaves and bark with a hydroalcoholic solvent (70% ethanol, 30% water) facilitated optimum recovery of phytoconstituents, followed by physicochemical, microbiological, and phytochemical evaluations to ascertain its composition, purity, and bioactive potential. Comprehensive investigations, including organoleptic assessment, heavy metal identification, and quantitative phytochemical profiling, have validated the purity and appropriateness of the extract for pharmaceutical use. Quantitative examination of T. procumbens extract identified several bioactive phytochemicals, including carbohydrates (11.38%), alkaloids (11.89%), and flavonoids (8.49%), underscoring potential therapeutic and nutritional advantages. An optimized HPLC approach utilizing a 70:30 methanol-water mobile phase and C18 column significantly enhanced the chromatographic separation and detection of Apigenin. This work offers significant insights into the composition and possible therapeutic qualities of T. procumbens extract. Future studies are needed to evaluate the synergistic activities of apigenin with other bioactive compounds in T. procumbens aimed at maximizing its therapeutic values. Moreover, in vivo studies and clinical trials are needed to test the extract's effectiveness and safety for its use in medicine. Further investigation on the molecular mechanisms explaining the anti-inflammatory activities of these plants could provide opportunities for creating new therapeutic methods.