Phytochemical analysis and bioactivities of different organs of Bunium ferulaceum Sm [Articol]

Abstract

This study provides an integrated chemical and biological evaluation of hydro-methanolic extracts from the leaves, flowering heads, and tubers of Bunium ferulaceum Sm. Phytochemical profiling revealed organ-dependent variations, with leaves rich in phenolics (53.13 mg GAE/g), flavonoids (21.45 mg QE/g), and tannins (10.17 mg TAE/g), while tubers showed the highest triterpene content (8.15 μg UAE/mg). These compositional differences in functional phytochemical classes were statistically correlated with biological responses: triterpenes showed a strong association with anti-inflammatory effects (r= –0.97), while polyphenols, particularly phenolics and flavonoids, were correlated with antibacterial activity (r= –0.91 and –0.90, respectively). The chemical data highlight the coexistence and complementary mechanisms of polyphenols and triterpenoids, supporting a structure-activity relationship that underlies the pharmacological potential of B. ferulaceum. Overall, the study emphasizes the chemical rationale behind its bioactivity, providing a solid basis for future isolation and mechanistic studies.