Squalene

Sphenocentrum jollyanum is a medicinal plant with potential bioactive compounds, including squalene, a valuable triterpene with wide pharmacological applications. This study aimed to compare the squalene content in aqueous and ethanolic leaf extracts using GC–MS analysis. Leaves were collected from a local market in Iwo, Osun State, processed, and extracted with water and ethanol. Percentage yield, phytochemical composition, and GC–MS profiles were evaluated. Results showed that ethanolic extraction produced a higher yield (18.6%) compared to aqueous extraction (12.3%). Phytochemical screening indicated higher concentrations of terpenoids and steroids in the ethanolic extract. GC–MS analysis identified squalene as a major constituent in ethanol extract (14.35 mg/g) and in trace amounts in aqueous extract (0.92 mg/g). This study confirms that solvent polarity strongly influences squalene extraction, with ethanol being superior for non-polar compound recovery. These findings shows S. jollyanum is a promising natural source of squalene for nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications, and provide a foundation for further standardization and commercialization efforts