GC-MS PROFILING

This study investigated the bioactive phytochemical constituents of Monodora myristica (African nutmeg) seed and shell extracts using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) to validate their traditional medicinal uses and explore their therapeutic potential. Monodora myristica, a tropical tree of the Annonaceae family native to Sub-Saharan Africa, is valued for its culinary and medicinal properties, yet its shell remains underutilized. The study aimed to identify, characterize, and compare the phytochemical composition of hydroethanol extracts from the seed and shell, and to evaluate their possible applications in medicine, food preservation, and nutraceutical development. GC-MS analysis revealed 28 compounds in the seed extract and 15 in the shell extract. The seed extract contained linoelaidic acid (29.49%), 9,12-octadecadienoic acid (26.97%), and (E)-9-octadecenoic acid ethyl ester (21.90%), known for antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties. The shell extract was rich in (E)-9-octadecenoic acid ethyl ester (35.08%) and linoleic acid ethyl ester (22.21%), which possess strong pharmacological effects. These findings confirm the therapeutic potential of Monodora myristica, demonstrating that both seed and shell extracts are valuable sources of bioactive compounds. The study recommends further isolation, toxicity testing, and extraction optimization to support drug discovery and sustainable utilization.