Solvent-Specific Extraction And Spectral Characterization Of Chlorophyll In Selected Invasive Plant Species

Abstract

Invasive plant species, often regarded as ecological liabilities, may offer promising biochemical resources when subjected to systematic scientific evaluation. This study examines the chlorophyll extraction efficiency and pigment stability of five invasive weeds—Cannabis sativa, Parthenium hysterophorus, Alstonia venenata, Tridax procumbens, and Lantana camara. Pigments were extracted using solvents of varying polarity (acetone, methanol, ethanol, dimethyl formamide [DMF], and dimethyl sulfoxide [DMSO]) and analyzed through UV-Visible spectrophotometry and thin-layer chromatography (TLC).

Simulated UV-Vis spectra revealed distinct absorption peaks for chlorophyll a (λ_max 663 nm) and chlorophyll b (λ_max 645 nm), with acetone and DMSO producing the most concentrated extracts. TLC confirmed solvent-dependent pigment separation and stability. Quantitative analysis indicated that Cannabis sativa and Tridax procumbens yielded chlorophyll levels comparable to those of Spinacia oleracea, suggesting their viability as alternative pigment sources.

These findings underscore the potential of invasive weeds as sustainable raw materials for industrial applications in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, offering a dual benefit of ecological management and resource utilization.