Comprehensive analysis of different solvent extracts of Ferula communis L. fruit reveals phenolic compounds and their biological properties via in vitro and in silico assays

Abstract

Although giant fennel is recognized as a “superfood” rich in phytochemicals with antioxidant activity, research into the antibacterial properties of its fruits has been relatively limited, compared to studies involving the root and aerial parts of the plant. In this study, seven solvents—acetone, methanol, ethanol, ethyl acetate, chloroform, water, and hexane—were used to extract the chemical constituents of the fruit of giant fennel (Ferula communis), a species of flowering plant in the carrot family Apiaceae. Specific attributes of these extracts were investigated using in silico simulations and in vitro bioassays. High-performance liquid chromatography equipped with a diode-array detector (HPLC–DAD) identified 15 compounds in giant fennel extract, with p-coumaric acid, 3-hydroxybenzoic acid, sinapic acid, and syringic acid being dominant. Among the solvents tested, ethanol demonstrated superior antioxidant activity and phenolic and flavonoid contents. F. communis extracts showed advanced inhibition of gram-negative pathogens (Escherichia coli and Proteus mirabilis) and variable antifungal activity against tested strains. Molecular docking simulations assessed the antioxidative, antibacterial, and antifungal properties of F. communis, facilitating innovative therapeutic development through predicted compound–protein interactions. In conclusion, the results validate the ethnomedicinal use and potential of F. communis. This highlights its significance in natural product research and ethnopharmacology.

Unveiling the Antianemic Activity, Physicochemical Aspects, Antioxidant Properties, and Mineral Profile of Petroselinum crispum L

“…Extracts (20 μL) were injected, and compounds were identified using a diode array detector on 280 and 360 nm interval . The compounds were characterized based on comparing chromatogram retention time and λ max with standards …”

“…15 The compounds were characterized based on comparing chromatogram retention time and λ max with standards. 16 2.4. Antioxidant Activity.…”

“…It is a rich source of natural antioxidants. 13 Antioxidant, 14 antibiotic, 15 antifungal, 16 neuroprotective, 17 nephroprotective, 18 antidiabetic, 19 analgesic, 20 spasmolytic, 21 antiplatelet, 22 laxative, 21 diuretic, 23 and aphrodisiac 24 are just a few of the pharmacological effects linked to parsley. Despite the extensive utilization of parsley in traditional medicine, this study was the first attempt to assess the antianemic effects of P. crispum .…”