Standardization of Stamens of Mesua ferrea Linn.

Abstract

India has a rich culture of medicinal herbs and spices, which includes Ayurvedic, Unani, Siddha and other traditional medicines but only very few have been studied chemically and pharmacognostically evaluated for their potential medicinal value. According to the World Health Organization, most populations still rely on traditional medicines for their psychological and physical health requirements. Nagkesar is a very famous ayurvedic herb used in treating fever, vomiting, urinary tract disorders, migraine and also used to preparation of several compound formulation viz. Candanabalalaksadi Taila, Kumaryasava, Nagakesaradi Curna, Kankasava, Eladi curna, Jatiphaladi curna and Karpuradi churna etc. The present paper provides a detailed account of the scientific evaluation of Mesua ferrea stamens. The study includes macro and microscopic characters, powder microscopic characteristics, High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography fingerprint profile, preliminary phytochemical screening and physicochemical parameters. The information generated by this particulars study provides relevant pharmacognostical and physicochemical data needed for proper identification and authentication of Mesua ferrea stamens.