Chemical Components of Lantana (Lantana Camara L) and Lemongrass (Cymbopogon Citratus "Dc." Stapf.) Plants in Egypt

Abstract

The aim of the present investigation is to study the chemical components of two plant species, lantana (Lantana camara) and lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus). Plant materials were extracted successively by using four solvents of ascending polarity (Petroleum ether, chloroform, acetone and ethanol, respectively). The fatty acids, unsaponifiable matter, volatile oils, photochemical screening and the active components were determined. The results of this work showed that: 1-The presence of five saturated fatty acid and seven unsaturated fatty acids in Lantana camara, while lemongrass showed seven saturated fatty acids and five unsaturated fatty acids. 2-Lantana camara unsaponifible matter showed the presence of 16 compounds, while lemongrass showed 14 compounds. 3-GC/Ms Lantana camara volatile oil showed the presence of 31 compounds, while lemongrass volatile oil showed 13 compounds. 4-Lantana camara had higher percentage of total sterols (12.23%) than that of lemongrass (6.91%). Total falvonoids were higher in Lantana camara (219.19 mg/g than that lemongrass (17.54mg/g). Total carbohydrates, proteins and fat contents were higher in lemongrass than that Lantana camara.