PHYTOCHEMICAL STUDY AND HEMOLYTIC ACTIVITY OF THE PULP OF BALANITES AEGYPTIACA (L.) DEL

This study aims to explore the phytochemical properties and the hemolytic effect of an extract from the fruit pulp of the desert date palm (Balanites aegyptiaca(L.) Del.; family Zygophyllaceae), a plant of nutritional and medicinal importance. The studied specimen was collected in the Segou region of Mali. Its chemical composition and/or toxicity remain insufficiently documented from a scientific perspective.The study relied on classical phytochemical screening methods to characterize the main groups of secondary metabolites present in the pulp. Three extraction methods were applied (infusion, decoction, and maceration) using 5 g of pulp. In addition, the hemolytic effect was evaluated using a crude extract prepared by hydroalcoholic decoction, applied to bovine erythrocytes suspended in PBS buffer at pH 7.4 and incubated at 37C.The results revealed a notable richness in saponins, tannins, and reducing compounds, as well as the presence of coumarins, terpenoids, sterols, and triterpenes. Hemolytic activity remained moderate, with a maximum rate of 46% at 12.5 mg/mL, suggesting a low toxic potential. These findings support the potential interest of this plant for future therapeutic applications.