Comprehensive Characterization of <em>Lantana camara </em>Essential Oils: GC-MS Profiling, Antioxidant Capacity, and Drug-Likeness Prediction

Lantana camara L. (Verbenaceae) is a medicinal plant widely used in traditional medicine in Angola, especially for its anti-inflammatory effects. This study evaluated the chemical composition of essential oils from leaves (Lc-1leaf) and flowers (Lc-1leaf) collected in Uíge Province, Angola. GC-MS analysis identified 98 to 106 compounds in leaf samples and 56 in flowers, with sesquiterpenes as the dominant group. β-caryophyllene and α-humulene were major constituents in all samples, with β-caryophyllene reaching up to 18.29% in flowers. Monoterpenes such as sabinene and 1,8-cineole also contributed notably. Antioxidant activity of Lc-1leaf sample was assessed using DPPH, ABTS, and superoxide anion (O2•−) assays. The Lc-1leaf sample showed moderate activity in DPPH (Emax: 68.2%) and ABTS (Emax: 77.1%) assays, but minimal effect on O2•−. It also significantly inhibited lipid peroxidation (Emax: 72.2%). The anti-inflammatory activity of Lc-1leaf was assessed through its ability to inhibit protein denaturation, exhibiting a moderate effect with 28% inhibition compared to the standard drug, diclofenac. In silico ADMET predictions suggested drug-like properties and low toxicity for major compounds. The Artemia salina assay confirmed moderate cytotoxicity (IC₅₀ = 154.1 µg/mL), while the MTT viability assay, Lc-1leaf showed high toxicity (IC₅₀ = 31.58 μg/mL). These findings highlight the phytochemical richness and antioxidant potential of L. camara essential oils. The presence of bioactive sesquiterpenes supports their continued investigation for pharmacological applications, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory therapies.