Phytochemical Extraction and Chromatographic Characterization of Chrysopogon zizanioides (Vetiver) Root

Research Article

Abstract

The extraction and analysis of bioactive constituents from aromatic medicinal plants remain a cornerstone of pharmaceutical and cosmetic research. Chrysopogon zizanioides (L.) Roberty, commonly known as Vetiver, is a perennial grass renowned for its complex essential oil sequestered within its fibrous root system. This study focuses on the extraction efficiency and phytochemical profiling of Vetiver roots utilizing solvent extraction methodologies. The primary objective was to isolate the crude extract and characterize its constituents through Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC). Root samples were subjected to rigorous processing, including shade drying and pulverization, followed by continuous hot percolation using a Soxhlet apparatus. This method facilitated the exhaustion of phytochemicals, yielding a viscous, aromatic extract rich in sesquiterpenoids. Subsequent chromatographic analysis employed a silica gel stationary phase and a specific solvent system of n-hexane and ethyl acetate to resolve the complex mixture. The analysis revealed three distinct phytochemical fractions with Retardation factor (Rf) values of 0.42, 0.60, and 0.76, indicating the presence of compounds with varying polarities, likely corresponding to the main sesquiterpene alcohols such as Khusimol and its derivatives. These results validate the efficacy of the extraction protocol and highlight the pharmaceutical viability of Vetiver root beyond its traditional olfactory applications. The study suggests that refined fractionation could further isolate specific therapeutic agents applicable in anti-inflammatory and antiseptic formulations