K. sumalatha - Department of Chemistry, Mangalore University, Mangalagangothri, India
J. Ishwara Bhat - Department of Chemistry, Mangalore University, Mangalagangothri, India

The medicinal properties shown by different plants are due to phytochemicals present in the plant. These phytochemicals are the most vital source for the treatment of various diseases. Different phytochemicals have an extensive range of activities, which help to enhance the immune system and give resistance to the body to protect against attack of harmful pathogens. It is well accepted fact that even areca plant seed is also a good source of phytochemicals and hence planned to examine the phytochemicals present in its different stages, that is, tender areca nut (TACN), mature areca nut (MACN) and dry areca nut (DACN). All the three stages of areca nut extract were examined for tannin, phenols, flavonoids, alcohols, acids, amines and nitro groups. They showed positive results for all the tests. Trace elements such as Cu, Fe, Zn, Cr, Ni, Pb are present in small amount when compared to Na and K, and are identified by Atomic Adsorption Spectroscopy. FTIR analysis revealed the presence of functional groups such as –OH. –NH, -CH, > C=O, > C=C<, > C-O-C and –NO groups in the areca nut extract. Extracts were investigated through GC-MS for identification of the chemical composition of extract, on comparison with results obtained from FTIR, and molecular mass nine, fourteen and five compounds were identified in TACN, MACN and DACN extracts, respectively.

Areca Nut, anti-bacterial, Anti-oxidant, Crystalline Compounds, phytochemicals