Phytochemical Constituents of the Root of Berberis Microphylla

Objective: To objective of this work was to perform phytochemical qualitative and quantitative analyzes of the main secondary metabolites in the root of Berberis microphylla. Methods: The extracts of B. microphylla root were tested through phytochemical screening and the quantification of the most important constituents was carried out using spectrophotometric and gravimetric techniques. Results: Phytochemical screening of both extracts showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, cardiac glycosides, saponins, terpenes, and tannins, which are pharmacologically important. Quantification of the major phytochemicals groups showed that the ethanolic extract contains 3.9% alkaloids, 0.46% flavonoids, 9.53% tannins, and 3.60% saponins. Similarly, the methanolic extract contains 6.61% alkaloids, 0.41% flavonoids, 7.40% tannins, and 1.43% saponins. Conclusion: This is the first time that the presence of tannins, flavonoids, and saponins in this plant has been reported. The medicinal properties of the root of B. microphylla may exist due to the presence secondary metabolites.