Phytochemical Profiling, Antioxidant Activity, and Toxicological Assessment of Abies marocana Trab. Woody Biomass: Pharmacognostic Evaluation of an Endemic Moroccan Species

Morocco's botanical wealth includes numerous endemic species with underexplored pharmacological potential. Abies marocana Trab. , a conifer native to the Rif Mountains, remains insufficiently studied despite its traditional significance. This study aims to evaluate the phytochemical composition, antioxidant activity, and acute oral toxicity of the woody biomass (twigs and cones) of Abies marocana Trab. , providing insights into its pharmacognostic value.

Proximate composition (moisture, ash, fiber, protein, carbohydrates, and lipids) was determined using AOAC protocols. Mineral elements were quantified via Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). Methanolic extracts were analyzed for total phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, and phytosterols, and their antioxidant potential assessed using the DPPH radical scavenging assay. Volatile compounds were identified by Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Acute oral toxicity was evaluated in Wistar rats according to OECD guideline 423.

The results revealed that both cones and twigs contain appreciable levels of nutrients and essential minerals. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of bioactive secondary metabolites. GC-MS analysis identified linoleic acid as the major compound in twig extracts and 2-Bornanone in cone extracts. The extracts exhibited significant antioxidant capacity, supporting their potential use in oxidative stress-related disorders. Toxicological evaluation showed no signs of toxicity or mortality up to 1000 mg·kg⁻¹, suggesting a favorable safety profile.

These findings highlight the potential of Abies marocana Trab. woody biomass as a valuable source of natural antioxidants with prospective applications in phytotherapy, nutraceuticals, and cosmeceuticals. Further pharmacological and mechanistic studies are warranted to support its integration into evidence-based medicinal use.