Abstract : The leaves of Piper betle Linn. have long been used in Ayurveda and alternative system of medicine. They are considered auspicious and are still extensively used during religious functions. Betel leaf is consumed as a digestive stimulant and mouth freshener. It is said to have a number of medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic and anti-oxidant activities. In our present study, we evaluated the anticancer, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of methanolic extract of Piper betle. The phytochemical screening of crude methanolic extract of betel leaves revealed the presence of phytochemicals like Alkaloids, Carbohydrates, Tannins, Glycosides, Steroids, Saponins, Flavanoids and Volatile oils, while Glycoproteins were found to be absent. HPLC and Gas Chromatography analysis was undertaken to find out the bioactive compounds, which showed major peaks pertaining to Chromanol, 4-Acyl 1,2 diacetoxy benzene and Phenol 2-methoxy-4-(2-Propenyl acetate). MTT assay followed by DNA fragmentation test and apoptosis using HCT-116 cell line indicated significant cytotoxic activity by the extract. It also showed statistically significant antioxidant activity as evidenced through DPPH activity and lipid peroxidation assay. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated using well-diffusion method, and Piper betle showed effective antibacterial activity against B. cereus, E. coli, P. aeruginosa and S. typhi.

Keywords: Piper betle, Anticancer, DPPH, Lipid peroxidation, Antimicrobial activity.

| DOI: 10.17148/IARJSET.2022.9283