Dataset of Non-Edible Calabash Chalk’s Bioactive Compounds: A Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Approach

Background and Objective: Calabar stone, or calabash chalk, is a natural cosmetic composed of aluminum silicate hydroxide. Derived from fossilized seashells mixed with clay mud and elements like sand, wood ash and salt, it is used as a facial powder and antiperspirant. This study aims to investigate the phytochemical and bioactive components of calabash chalk used by herbalists in Imo State, Nigeria, for treating skin and wound infections. Materials and Methods: A chalk sample from herbalists was identified and deposited in the herbarium at Imo State University. The samples underwent drying, pulverizing and Soxhlet extraction. Extracts were obtained and bioactive compounds were analyzed using Agilent Technologies GC systems. Chemical components’ relative quantities were expressed as percentages based on chromatogram peak areas. Results: Solvent extracts of non-edible calabash chalk revealed the presence of various phytochemicals, including Hexadecanes, Methyl tetradecanoate, Tetradecanal, Hexadecanoic acid, Methyl ester, n-Hexadecanoic acid, known for antimicrobial, antioxidant and anticancer activities. Conclusion: The study establishes that calabash chalk utilized by herbalists contains bioactive components effective against various diseases. These components, identified and characterized using GC-MS technology, highlight calabash chalk’s potential as a source for medication development.