Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis of Primary and Secondary Metabolites in Young Areca Nut (Areca catechu L.) Flesh as a Source of Bioactive Compounds and Plant Nutrients

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the content of primary and secondary metabolites in the flesh of young areca nut (Areca catechu L.) as a source of bioactive compounds and its relationship with plant nutrition. The samples were collected from Bengkurung Village, Sibolangit District, Deli Serdang Regency, North Sumatra Province, Indonesia. The analysis was conducted qualitatively and quantitatively using phytochemical methods and GC-MS (Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry) to identify and quantify the major bioactive compounds.

Qualitative tests showed that young areca nut flesh contains alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, phenols, saponins, and steroids. Quantitative analysis revealed that the total contents were flavonoids 3.02%, tannins 2.11%, phenols 2.53%, saponins 1.10%, and steroids 0.97% of the dry weight of the sample. The analysis of primary metabolites indicated the presence of major compounds such as carbohydrates, fats, crude protein, crude fiber, moisture content, and vitamin C. Quantitative results showed levels of carbohydrates 6.11%, fats 1.60%, crude protein 8.23%, crude fiber 12.40%, moisture content 53.30%, and vitamin C 0.67%, which acts as an essential cofactor in the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. The plant nutrient analysis showed macronutrient contents of nitrogen (N) 2.55%, phosphorus (P) 0.72%, and potassium (K) 2.09%, which support the formation of primary metabolites such as proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids, and serve as precursors for the synthesis of secondary metabolites such as alkaloids and flavonoids. Overall, the results indicate that young areca nut flesh from Bengkurung Village possesses high bioactive potential with a balanced composition of primary and secondary metabolites, making it a valuable natural source of bioactive compounds and plant nutrients with significant applications in biochemistry, pharmaceutical science, and phytopharmacology.