Eight fractions (Alk1 to Alk4 and W1 to W4) of M. whitei roots
were tested for their content in alkaloids by TLC with Dragendorff’s
reagent detection. From these fractions, only Alk2 displayed a
potential content in alkaloids, as revealed by spots at retention
factors (Rf) 0.52 (bright orange) and 0.90 (pale brown) (Fig. 1A).