PHYTOCHEMICAL, SPECTROSCOPIC AND IN-SILICO EVALUATION OF RUMEX ACETOSA LINN. FOR NEUROPROTECTIVE AND ANTIDIABETIC POTENTIAL

The present study investigates the pharmacological potential of Rumex acetosa through a multidisciplinary approach involving phytochemical analysis, UV and IR spectroscopy, and in-silico modelling. Ethanolic extracts of the plant were subjected to qualitative phytochemical screening, revealing the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, and anthraquinones compounds known for their therapeutic properties. UV spectroscopic analysis confirmed the presence of conjugated systems through distinct absorption maxima, while IR spectroscopy identified characteristic functional groups such as hydroxyl, carbonyl, and aromatic moieties. These findings suggest a rich bioactive phytochemical composition. To further explore potential mechanisms of action, molecular docking studies were performed using key bioactive constituents against protein targets implicated in diabetic neuropathy. The docking results demonstrated favourable binding affinities, particularly with proteins involved in oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways, indicating possible neuroprotective and antidiabetic effects. Collectively, the results support the ethnopharmacological relevance of Rumex acetosa, suggesting it holds significant promise for the management of diabetes and its neurological complications. This integrative study provides a scientific rationale for its traditional use and encourages further preclinical and clinical evaluations to isolate active constituents and confirm therapeutic efficacy.