Unveiling the antibacterial and antioxidant capabilities of Diospyros buxifolia leaf and stem extracts via GC-MS analysis

Drug-resistant microorganisms pose a significant threat to public health as they can undermine the effectiveness of existing antibiotics and other medications. Additionally, the formation of free radicals, can contribute to various health problems. Diospyros buxifolia (D. buxifolia) belonging to Ebenaceae family is a large tropical evergreen tree utilised in traditional medicine to cure several health ailments. The present study was set out to separate bioactive speciation of aqueous and methanolic extracts of stem and leaves from D. buxifolia by using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) followed by evaluation of its antimicrobial and antioxidant capabilities. GC-MS identified 14 different bioactive compounds, with four compounds common for both (leaf and stem) extracts. The methanolic extracts of leaf demonstrated significant antibacterial activity) while stem extracts exhibited notable antioxidant potential. Thus, D. buxifolia is proved source of natural antimicrobial and antioxidant agent, that could address the challenges posed by drug-resistant microorganisms and oxidative stress in global health.