Advances in Biology & Earth Sciences

The phytochemical profile and multi-biological activities of three Piper betle varieties (Black, White and Hybrid) were carried out using comprehensive biochemical and cytotoxic assays. Methanolic leaf extracts were analysed through qualitative phytochemical screening, quantitative estimation of total phenolics and flavonoids, antioxidant assays, lipid peroxidation inhibition, GC-MS profiling and MTT cytotoxicity assessment against MCF-7 breast cancer cells. All varieties contained major secondary metabolites, including flavonoids, phenols, alkaloids and terpenoids. Among them, the Hybrid variety recorded the highest phenolic content and demonstrated superior antioxidant capacity, while the Black variety showed elevated flavonoid levels and strong anti-peroxidative activity. GC-MS analysis confirmed the presence of several pharmacologically active constituents, such as benzoic acid derivatives and triazine compounds. Cytotoxic evaluation revealed a dose-dependent reduction in MCF-7 cell viability, with an IC₅₀ of 41.22 µg/mL. Collectively, the findings identified that the hybrid Piper betle variety is the most potent and underscoring the therapeutic potential of P. betle as a natural source of antioxidant and anticancer agents suitable for future drug development.