Functional Group Analysis of Medicinal Plants in Northern Samar, Philippines

Abstract

Northern Samar, a province in the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines, harbors a rich yet underexplored diversity of plant species. While earlier studies have documented the flora of its island municipalities, many mainland species remain chemically uncharacterized and underutilized. This study employed Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to analyze twelve locally available but underused plant species representing the families Amaryllidaceae, Acanthaceae, Apocynaceae, Fabaceae, Lamiaceae, Melastomataceae, Moraceae, Primulaceae, Selaginellaceae, and Urticaceae. The objective was to identify the major functional groups present in these plants and establish baseline chemical profiles that may support their potential pharmacological, nutraceutical, and industrial applications. The FTIR spectra revealed the presence of key bioactive functional groups, including alcohols, phenols, carbonyls, alkenes, and nitro compounds. These functional groups are commonly associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and other therapeutic activities. The results demonstrate the chemical diversity and bioactive potential of Northern Samar’s native flora, suggesting that these species could serve as valuable natural resources for further biochemical and pharmacological investigations. Overall, the study provides essential preliminary data that can guide future research, conservation, and sustainable utilization efforts aimed at maximizing the economic and medicinal potential of the region’s botanical resources.