Phytochemical screening and evaluation of Antimicrobial and Antioxidant activity of Cannabis sativa leaves extract

Objectives: The study focuses on extracting and analyzing bioactive compounds from the
plant's leaves, particularly cannabinoids and flavonoids, known for their antibacterial and
antioxidant properties. By optimizing extraction methods and assessing these compounds'
efficacy, the research aims to enhance the understanding of Cannabis sativa therapeutic
potential in alternative medicine.
Methods: This study extracts bioactive compounds from Cannabis sativa using Soxhlet
extraction with methanol and petroleum ether. The extracts are screened for phytochemicals
and tested for antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well
as antioxidant activity using the DPPH assay, to assess its potential medicinal properties.
Result: Cannabis sativa leaves were extracted with methanol (20.76% yield) and petroleum
ether (14.1% yield). The methanol extract showed higher antioxidant activity (IC50 = 98.1
µg/ml) compared to petroleum ether (IC50 = 106.43 µg/ml), with ascorbic acid showing the
highest activity (IC50 = 16.2 µg/ml). The methanol extract also exhibited strong antibacterial
effects, particularly against E. coli and Pseudomonas, with inhibition zones up to 20 mm.
Phytochemical analysis revealed alkaloids, terpenoids, tannins, and glycosides in both extracts,
with methanol also containing resins, suggesting it is more effective for extracting bioactive
compounds from Cannabis sativa.
Conclusion: Cannabis sativa leaves exhibit notable antioxidant and antibacterial properties.
The methanolic extract, with the highest antioxidant activity (IC50 = 98.1 µg/ml) and effective
antibacterial action.