The study investigates the phytochemical composition and bioactive potential of Acalypha
malabarica (Euphorbiaceae), through comprehensive solvent extraction, quantification, and
advanced analytical techniques. A wide variety of phytochemicals were extracted using
petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate, acetone, and methanol, the most abundant of the
five solvents. Based on the polarity of the solvents, preliminary phytochemical investigation
showed that the plant included alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, glycosides, steroids,
and terpenoids, among other things. The quantitative analysis highlighted methanol as the
most effective solvent, with the highest concentrations of phenols (240 mg/g gallic acid
equivalent), flavonoids (620 mg/g quercetin equivalent), and proanthocyanidins (530 mg/g
catechin equivalent), emphasizing its suitability for extracting polar bioactive compounds.
Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed the presence of hydroxyl,
carbonyl, aromatic, and glycosidic functional groups, indicative of diverse bioactive
compounds with potential therapeutic applications. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
(GC-MS) analysis identified 20 bioactive compounds, including 2-Myristoylglycinamide
(antimicrobial), Cucurbitacin B (antitumor), and 1-Monolinoleoylglycerol (antimicrobial and
antioxidant), along with fatty acids, terpenoids, and siloxanes. These compounds underscore
the extract’s pharmacological significance, particularly in antioxidant, antimicrobial, and
anti-inflammatory applications. The findings highlight the chemical richness and bioactivity
of Acalypha malabarica, validating its traditional medicinal uses and potential for
pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and industrial applications. This study provides a foundation
for further research into isolating and characterizing individual compounds for targeted
therapeutic development.