Green Extraction of Saba Banana Peel: Phytochemical Profile and in Vitro Cytotoxic Activity Against Cervical Cancer Cells

Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: aas973@ums.ac.id

Abstract

Cervical cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in Indonesia. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are two examples of current treatments that often cause severe side effects due to their indiscriminate toxicity. Saba banana (Musa acuminata × Musa balbisiana, ABB group) peel, an agricultural by-product, is known to contain flavonoids, which have potential anticancer properties. This study investigated the cytotoxic effect of ethanolic banana peel extract on HeLa cervical cancer cells while also assessing the environmental sustainability of the extraction process. The greenness was evaluated using the analytical eco-scale and the modified green analytical procedure index (MoGAPI), resulting in an eco-scale score of 78 and a predominantly green MoGAPI profile. The phytochemical profile was identified through qualitative screening, and cytotoxicity was measured using the MTT assay. Several classes of secondary metabolites, including flavonoids and alkaloids, were detected. The extract exhibited weak cytotoxic activity with an IC₅₀ value of 393.05 μg/mL. Nevertheless, these results demonstrate the potential of saba banana peel as a low-cost, sustainable source of anticancer agents. This study represents the first step in ongoing research aimed at isolating constituents, optimizing their potency, and advancing the development of green- derived therapeutic candidates for cervical cancer treatment.