In-vitro ACE-1 Inhibitory Activity of Coleus scutellarioides Benth (Mayana) Crude Ethanolic Dehydrated Leaf Extract

Objectives. Herbal plants can be an alternative source of therapy especially against hypertension, which is a prevalent burden in the Philippines. This study investigates the phytochemical composition and angiotensin-converting enzyme 1 (ACE-1) inhibitory activity of Mayana (Coleus scutellarioides Benth.) leaf extract, a plant ethnobotanically reported to be used for its potential antihypertensive properties and yet still lacking in in-vitro investigations.

Methods. Employing a laboratory experimental research design and standard procedures for phytochemical screening and ACE-1 inhibitory assay, the study compares a crude ethanolic dehydrated leaf extract of Mayana with the positive control, Captopril.

Results. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids and phenolic compounds. ACE-1 inhibitory activity of Mayana at 10 µg/mL, 25 µg/mL, 50µg/mL, 100 µg/mL, 500 µg/mL, 1000 µg/mL were 0.00% ± 0.0000, 12.40% ± 2.7094, 18.76% ± 0.7232, 27.31% ± 2.2159, 30.44% ± 1.6022, 40.12% ± 2.4385, respectively. Mayana exhibited an IC50 value of 55.9154 µg/mL compared to Captopril which was 7.7232 µg/mL, indicating potency disparities. 

Conclusion. Mayana has been shown to contain flavonoids and phenolic compounds that exhibit preliminary antihypertensive potential through the inhibition of ACE-1. However, the bioactivity of Mayana is lower when compared with a positive control. As such, more research is needed. Despite that, this research contributes to our understanding of Mayana as a medicinal plant and its potential contribution to complementary and alternative healthcare, with implications for patient care, community awareness, farmer livelihood, education, and future research.