Abstract

• Plants have been used for medicinally since prehistoric period. The rhizomes of Geodrum recurvum Roxb. (Orchidaceae) (Myanmar name – Thudar) are used by local people in Lashio Township for cancer treatment, however, it lacks scientific investigation. The purpose of this study is the isolation of bioactive compounds from the rhizomes of Geodrum recurvum Roxb. and evaluation of their anticancer and antioxidant activities. The three monophenanthrenes (1-3) were isolated, during the first investigation of the rhizomes of Geodrum recurvum collected in Myanmar by advanced separation techniques. Their structures were determined by 1D and 2D NMR, and FAB-MS spectral data. The anticancer activity of isolated compounds (1-3) was evaluated in vitro against Hela cells using cell counting kit 8. Compounds (1-3) showed the potent activity against Hela cancer cells. In addition, compounds (1-3) exhibited potent antioxidant activity according to DPPH radicalscavenging assay. The present study provides scientific evidence for the use of Geodrum recurvum in cancer treatment and as a source of antioxidants for pharmacological preparations by traditional healer.