I am an undergraduate student conducting a similar research on the plant Barringtonia asiatica, and I would love to know more about how others conduct their researches on the same plant. This would gladly help me on my research proper.
I suppose you mean phytochemicals in your plant of interest. If this is the case, you have the right to test activity against a specific interest. The local use of the plant in your area may be a good lead.
Once your research interest is clear, you may request assistance on methods.