Within the framework of determining capping and stabilizing bioactive components
present in Canna indica towards nanoparticles synthesis, phytochemical screening, total
phenolic content, infrared spectroscopy and chromatographic characterisation were carried out
on the locally sourced plant. Extracts were prepared from C. indica leaves using ethanol, deionised
water (DW) and ethanol/DW in ratio 1:1. Qualitative screening showed the presence of
saponins, alkaloids, terpenoids, phenols and coumarins. Highest total phenolic content (TPC)
was observed in the aqueous fraction and least in ethanol fraction. Characterisation was carried
out using Fourier Transform - Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Gas Chromatography - Mass
Spectrometry (GC-MS). Absorption bands observed from FT-IR analysis showed presence of
aromatic O-H stretch (3300 cm-1) and aromatic C=C stretch (1451 and 1640 cm-1) respectively.
GC-MS analysis of ethanolic extract indicated the presence of dl-.alpha.-tocopherol – a
phenolic compound
