PHARMACOGNOSTIC INSIGHTS, PHYTOMETABOLITE ANALYSIS AND IN-VITRO ASSESSMENT OF ANTIOXIDANT, ANTI-DIABETIC AND ANTI-PARKINSON’S EFFECTS OF KALANCHOE FEDTSCHENKOI LEAVES

Background: Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi is a traditionally used medicinal plant reputed for its antioxidant, antidiabetic, and neuroprotective properties. However, detailed scientific validation of its pharmacognostic and bioactive potential is limited. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the pharmacognostic characteristics, phytochemical profile, and in-vitro biological activities of K. fedtschenkoi leaves to support their therapeutic applications. Methods: Macroscopic, microscopic, and physicochemical analyses were performed to ensure plant authenticity and quality. Preliminary phytochemical screening identified flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, glycosides, phenolic compounds, terpenoids, and carbohydrates. The ethanolic leaf extract was analyzed by High-Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) and Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS), revealing 69 compounds, with 1,2,3,4-Cyclopentanetetrol (46.94%) as the major constituent. Antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH assay. Antidiabetic potential was evaluated via α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition assays, while acetylcholinesterase inhibition was performed to determine neuroprotective activity. Results: The extract showed moderate antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ = 83.06 μg/mL) and dose-dependent inhibition of α-amylase (IC₅₀ = 863.42 μg/mL) and α-glucosidase (IC₅₀ = 973.46 μg/mL), indicating antidiabetic potential. Strong acetylcholinesterase inhibition (IC₅₀ = 59.77 μg/mL, R² = 0.9917) suggested neuroprotective efficacy. Conclusion: K. fedtschenkoi leaves exhibit significant antioxidant, antidiabetic, and neuroprotective activities, supporting their traditional use. These findings provide a basis for future development of standardized herbal formulations and therapeutic applications in oxidative stress, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease.