Antidiabetic Potential of Lantana camara Flower Extract: Phytochemical analysis and enzyme inhibition studies

Lantana camara, a medicinal herb with a wide geographical presence, has been traditionally used for various therapeutic purposes. In this study, the ethanol extract of Lantana camara was investigated for its bioactive constituents and in-vitro antidiabetic activity. Preliminary phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of key secondary metabolites including flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolics, and terpenoids compounds known for their pharmacological properties. Advanced characterization techniques such as UV–Visible spectroscopy, FTIR, and GMS were employed to further analyze the extract. UV–Visible analysis suggested the presence of conjugated systems typical of polyphenolic compounds. FTIR spectroscopy indicated characteristic peaks corresponding to functional groups like hydroxyl (-OH), carbonyl (-C = O), and ketone, all associated with potential antidiabetic action. GCMS analysis revealed various phytochemicals with reported bioactivities, supporting the medicinal value of the extract. To evaluate the antidiabetic potential, in-vitro enzyme inhibition assays were conducted targeting α-amylase and β-glucosidase enzymes, The IC₅₀ value of the ethanol extract for α-amylase inhibition was found to be 318.95 ± 2.73 µg/mL, and for β-glucosidase inhibition, it was 313.95 ± 2.45 µg/mL. These were compared with the standard drug acarbose, which showed IC₅₀ values of 58.24 ± 1.38 µg/mL and 44.41 ± 0.097 µg/mL respectively under similar conditions. Although the extract exhibited a lower potency than the standard, it showed a notable inhibitory effect, suggesting the potential of Lantana camara as a natural source for managing diabetes through enzyme inhibition mechanisms.