Evaluation of the Phytochemical, Total Phenolic Content, and Antioxidant Activity of Banto Grass (Leersia hexandra) Using an Ecological and Ethnobotanical Approach

Abstract

Banto (Leersia hexandra) is an essential plant for the Minangkabau people. Banto grass is a weed plant that easily grows anywhere. This plant can live in dry, watery, or damp areas. This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical and total phenolic content of banto grass using an ecological and ethnobotanical approach. Banto grass samples originate from Lintau Buo and Pariaman. The phytochemical content of banto grass was determined using a qualitative screening method, and the total phenolic content was determined using gallic acid (GAE) standards. The ecological and ethnobotanical aspects of banto are studied through literature studies including information on botany, ecology, distribution, local names and traditional medicine. The results showed that both banto grass from the high and lowlands extracted with methanol had positive results for flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins and steroids. However, quantitatively, the total phenolic content of highland banto extract has a higher value than lowland, namely 842.593 mg/L and 649.471 mg/L respectively. Based on ethnobotanical aspects, the leaves of Banto have long been used to make a drink which functions to eliminate toxins in the body, asthma, and shortness of breath. Apart from that, our ancestors also used banto leaves as a toothbrush. Banto grows scattered around areas with lots of water, therefore, the Minang people also use banto as an indicator for digging wells.