Molecular Spectroscopic (FTIR and UV-Vis) and Hyphenated Chromatographic (GC–MS) Characterization of Bioactive Compounds Present in Different Solvent Fractions of Extract of Leaf of Cola hispida Brenan & Keay Sterculiaceae

Abstract

Cola hispida Brenan & Keay (Sterculiaceae), a tropical plant native to West and Central Africa, is widely used in traditional medicine for its therapeutic properties, yet its phytochemical composition remains underexplored. This study investigates the bioactive compounds in different solvent fractions (hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol) of Cola hispida leaf extracts using molecular spectroscopic (FTIR and UV-Vis) and hyphenated chromatographic (GC–MS) techniques. FTIR analysis identified functional groups such as hydroxyls, carbonyls, and aromatic rings, indicative of phenolics, flavonoids, and terpenoids. UV-Vis spectroscopy revealed absorption bands associated with conjugated systems, confirming the presence of flavonoids and phenolic compounds. GC–MS analysis elucidated the volatile and semi-volatile constituents, identifying key bioactive molecules, including terpenoids and alkaloids, with potential pharmacological significance. The solvent fractions exhibited distinct phytochemical profiles, with polar solvents yielding higher phenolic content and non-polar solvents extracting terpenoids. These findings validate the traditional uses of Cola hispida and highlight its chemical diversity, providing a foundation for further pharmacological and nutraceutical research. This integrative analytical approach underscores the efficacy of combining spectroscopic and chromatographic methods for comprehensive phytochemical characterization.