Abstract
This study is based on the first analysis of the content of phytochemicals in a hexane extract obtained from the roots of Lythrum salicaria L.. The composition of plant metabolites was analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Forty-eight compounds are identified in roots that can contribute to the medicinal potential of the plant. 74.3% of the identified compounds are fatty acids. The prevailing fatty acids are hexadecanoic acid (29.3%) and 9,12-octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z)- (18.8%). Sesquiterpenoids, triterpenoids are found in very small quantities. Biologically active compounds in plant roots may provide an opportunity to get future medicinal substances. For example, hexadecanoic acid, which is in large amounts in this hexane extract, has antioxidant, hypocholesterolemic, nematicidal and pesticidal activities. The second most common 9.12-octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z)- has antimicrobial properties. In addition, other compounds found in small quantities also have biological activity. For example, phytol show anti-inflammatory activities. Topical application of docosanol is indicated in the treatment of recurrent oral-facial herpes simplex.