Pharmacognostic Profile Research Articles

Evaluation of pharmacognostic profile, phytochemical, and antimicrobial properties of Psychotria vogeliana Benth. (Rubiaceae), Leaf

The use of plants for the treatment of human diseases is as old as mankind on earth.. While there are reports on some Psychotria species there is virtually none on the plant Psychotria vogeliana Benth, (Rubiaceae). This research aims to evaluate the pharmacognostic, phytochemical and antimicrobial activities of the leaves of the plant. Macroscopic and microscopic characters of the plant material were evaluated and recorded. The plant material was sequentially extracted with n-hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol using a soxhlet extractor. The methanol extract was evaluated for acute toxicity using Lorke’s method. Phytochemical analysis was carried out using standard methods while antimicrobial screening was done to test for antibacterial and antifungal activities following methods Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) document M07-A9 2012). The phytochemical analysis was carried out using standard methods. Extraction yield; Methanol Extract = 9.73 %, ethyl acetate extract= 6.35 %, n-hexane extract = 7.22 %. The bitterness value (expressed as Mean ± SEM) was 0.65±0.04 IU/g, swelling index was insignificant. Results for Foaming Index indicated an insignificant foaming index. Ethanol soluble extractive (%) was 5.2±0.00, Water soluble extractive (%) was 5±0.012 Total ash (%) was 6.67±0.003, Moisture content (Loss-on-drying) (%) was 7.50±0.00. The leaf is hypostomatic with the paracytic type of stomata, with stomatal number 30.6 ±0.27, stomatal size 293.56 ±9.95 stomatal index 27.7 ±0.17%, vein islet number 3.82. The methanol extract was found to be non-toxic at doses below 400 mg kg-1. The qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, reducing sugars, tannins, glycosides, saponins, terpenoids, steroids, flavonoids, phenols, cyanogenic compounds. The methanol extract has activity against all the tested organisms, but the n-hexane extract has no activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, while the ethyl acetate extract had no activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The methanol and n-hexane fractions showed activity against C.albicans. The qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, reducing sugars, tannins, glycosides, saponins, terpenoids, steroids, flavonoids, phenols, cyanogenic compounds. The plant Psychotria vogeliana Benth (Rubiaceae), leaf contains many major phytochemicals and methanol extract possesses antimicrobial activity. Further work should be carried out to investigate other activities of the plant.

Pharmacognostical and Physiochemical Study on the Leaves of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn

Aim: To rationalize the macroscopial, microscopical and physico-chemical studies on leaves of plant Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn. Methods: The pharmacognostic characters were determined in terms of macroscopy, microscopy and powder microscopy of plant Nyctanthes arbor-tristis leaves. The crude ethanolic extract of leaves of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn. was using physico-chemical parameters, and preliminary phytochemical investigation (TLC). Results: The microscopic study shows the general characteristic of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis leaves. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of various phytochemical groups like alkaloids, glycosides, steroids, phenolic, tannins constituents. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the established pharmacognostic profile of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis leaves will be helpful in developing pharmacopoeial standards for correct identification and quality control. The present observation will also be helpful in macroscopical and microscopical on leaves of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn.
 Keywords: Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, Pharmacognostical Study, Macroscopial and Microscopical studies

Development of pharmacognostic parameters for the leaf of Bridelia scandens (Roxb.) Willd

Background: Pharmacognostic study of medicinal plants is an important parameter for standardization and authentication of plants, with the help of which adulteration and substitution can be prevented. The present study deals with pharmacognostic profile of leaf of Bridelia scandens (Roxb).Willd. an important traditional plant, belonging to family Euphorbiaceae used to treat various ailments. Methods: The present study includes macroscopic and microscopic studies, quantitative microscopy, and physiochemical characters such as ash value, extractive values, fluorescence analysis, and total phenol and flavonoid content. Results: Macroscopically, the leaves are B. scandens are elliptic –oblong or obavate, dark green above, pale green below lateral veins. Microscopically, leaf consists of thick semicircular midrib and the lamina, cortical zone ending with thick continuous cylinder of sclerenchyma cells. Sclerenchyma cylinder completely enclosed the vascular cylinder of the midrib, consists of only continuous thick layer of phloem. Xylem cylinder consists of numerous short or long radial chains of vessels. The lateral vein is flat on the adaxial side and prominently projecting hemispherical body on the adaxial side. Powder microscopy of leaf revealed the presence of spiral xylem vessels, rosette and prismatic calcium oxalate crystals and trichomes. A Physiochemical characteristic was also determined. Conclusion: Existing literature revealed that so far, no Pharmacognostic study has been reported on the leaf of B. scandens. Findings from this investigation can be used for its identification and determination of quality and purity of medicinally important plant. Thus exploring the usefulness of pharmacognostic evaluation to validate and authenticate drug.

Pharmacognostical and Physico-chemical Evaluation of Ativishadi Churna – An Ayurvedic Formulation

Ativishadi churna is a traditional classical formulation pioneered by the science of Ayurveda. The very first reference regarding the formulation was documented in the Charka Samhita under title Ativishadi Yoga. The main indication of this formulation is to cure diarrhoea due to pitta dosha vitiation. It contains an equal part of powdered and dried Ativisha roots, Kutaj bark and Indrayava (dried Kutaj seeds). The polyherbal formulations comprise a wide range of bioactive compounds and the standardization of such formulations is a great concern these days. Hence, the present study evolves around standardizing Ativishadi Churna, for this purpose physicochemical parameters were performed of individual drugs by keeping the values of API as a standard. A complete pharmacognostic profile of ingredients has been validated to authenticate plant materials and to confirm the absence of any adulterants or impurities in the formulation. The preliminary phytochemical tests, Pharmacognostic and phytochemical standardization of the formulation were performed as a part of an SOP development. The formulation besides has been proven to possess antimicrobial properties against pathogens responsible for common infectious diseases in humans. The recent concern lies in the fact that some traditional medicines have been claimed to possess heavy metals. For this purpose, the heavy metal content has also been determined which shows that the formulation is devoid of heavy metals that may cause toxicity. The pharmacognostic and phytochemical study of this formulation would be very important for establishing standards in the future.

A Diagnostic approach for same looking plants for their Pharmacognosy value

Objective: To establish diagnostic features of same looking plants (C. gigantea and C. procera) and also to explore the diurnal influence on their Pharmacognosy values. Methodology: To meet the objectives, the characteristics of these plants were explored by macroscopic, microscopic (light microscopy), and also by physio-chemical parameters. The physiochemical analysis was performed with air dried leaves and flowers of C. gigantea and C. procera. The collected samples were used for the quantitative determination of ash value (water soluble, acid soluble and sulphate ash values), extractive values, loss on drying, swelling index, and foaming index through standard methods. The leaf and flower extracts (with different solvents) were subjected to qualitative phytochemical screening using the fluorescence test. Further, to explore the diurnal influence, the samples were plucked at different time intervals (morning, afternoon and evening) and fixed immediately for further processing. Results: It was observed that the macroscopic, microscopic and physiochemical characteristics analysed could serve as diagnostic features to distinguish these closely related species. Phytochemically, these plants are rich in constituents like carbohydrates, alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, saponins, phenolic compounds and terpenoids. Moreover, physio-chemical parameters with methanolic extracts provided higher bioactive constituents than other solvents. Besides this, total ash values were found to be maximum i.e. PLA (15.33 0.050%) and GFE (14.15  0.031%) than other acid insoluble and water-soluble values which were under 2-10%. Pertinently, the moisture content was found little higher in C. gigantea GLA (10.60 0.200%) and GFA (11.06 0.100) than in C. procera PLA (8.81 0.598%) and PFA (9.92 0.244, while a considerable amount of foaming content was present in both the species was less than 100. On the basis of observed pharmacognosy, C. procera was found more promising in drug prospective bioactive constituents than C. gigantea and thereby offers more contribution toward establishment of pharmacognostic profile of this medicinally effective plant species. Novelty: Our approach pays a way for the inclusion of an important factor (diurnal factor) in assessing the medical efficacy of desired plant species that could help in sampling the specific plant material with desired chemical profile and enhanced pharmacognosy potential. Keywords: Anatomy; Ash value; Calotropis; Medicinal plants; Stomata;Trichomes

Pharmacognostic standardization of Aralia cachemirica: a comparative study

BackgroundAralia cachemirica Decne. is an endemic and an important medicinal plant species of Kashmir Himalaya. Despite having immense medicinal importance, little information is available on the standardization parameters of the species. For this reason, present work was carried out for providing comprehensive report on the quality control and standardization parameters of A. cachemirica. In this connection, different parts (leaves, stem, and root) of the plant were examined. Methods like microscopy and macroscopy, physicochemical parameters, extractive values, and fluorescence analysis were used to establish pharmacognostical standards.ResultsThe macroscopic, microscopy, and physicochemical parameters of different parts of A. cachemirica revealed various diagnostic characteristics in the species.ConclusionThis is the first study providing complete pharmacognostic profile of A. cachemirica and hence will be useful for correct identification and authentication of the species for future studies.

Quality control parameters of prickles of Bombax ceiba Linn.

Bombax ceiba Linn. is a deciduous tree known as Red silk cotton tree. Bombax ceiba stem, stem bark and prickle are used for the treatment of rheumatism, swellings, asthma and inflammation of the legs. The stem bark of Bombax ceiba is official in the ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India recommends its use in acne. Prickles are also used and recommended in anti-acne marketed formulation. However, limited work was carried out on the prickle toward establishing quality control parameters. Studies were therefore carried out to determine the phytochemical and pharmacognostic profile of prickle of Bombax ceiba Linn. The study, including determination of macroscopic, microscopic characters, ash values, extractive values, loss on drying, phytochemical screening, total phenolic content, TLC and HPTLC fingerprinting were carried out. Successive extracts were prepared using soxhlet extraction. The phytochemical analysis of extracts revealed the presence of tannin, saponin, phenol, carbohydrate, steroids, triterpenoids and flavonoids. Total phenolic and tannin content of methanol extract was found 327.78±1.09mg GAE/gm equivalent and 4.98±0.22%w/w, respectively. The mobile phase showing distinct spots in TLC was found in Toluene: Ethyl acetate (9.5:0.5) and (9:1) for petroleum ether and methanol extracts, respectively. HPTLC fingerprinting shows 8 & 3 peaks at 366nm for petroleum ether and methanol extract, respectively.

A review of pharmacological and pharmacognostic profile of Myrica nagi

A review of pharmacological and pharmacognostic profile of Myrica nagi

An Evaluation of Pharmacognostical Profile and Anti-hyperglycemic Activity of Coriandrum sativum

An Evaluation of Pharmacognostical Profile and Anti-hyperglycemic Activity of Coriandrum sativum

Studies on standardization of a useful medicinal plant: Annona muricata Linn (Annonaceae)

Standardization of leaf, stem and root of Annona muricata (Annonaceae) were carried out to determine its pharmacognostic profile. The evaluation of the analytical standards as well as the preliminary phytochemical analyses of these parts was also carried out. The macromorphological and microscopical studies of the different parts revealed features that can be used for proper identification of the plant. The analytical standards determined were found to be: total ash 10.93, 10.23 and 10.87% for leaf, stem and root respectively; acid-insoluble ash 1.83, 1.98 and 1.70% for leaf, stem and root respectively; water-soluble ash 1.80, 1.85 and 3.75% for leaf, stem and root respectively; sulphated ash 7.3, 6.4 and 5.42 % for leaf, stem and root respectively. The alcohol-soluble extractive for the leaf, stem and root were 2.50, 7.50 and 5.00% respectively while the water soluble extractive for leaf, stem and root were 7.50, 2.50 and 10.00% respectively. The moisture content for the leaf, stem and root were 6.50, 5.50 and 4.50% respectively. The result of the phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, tannins, terpenoids, reducing sugars, carbohydrates, saponins, flavonoids and steroids in all the parts studied. Resins are present only in the leaf and stem while oils are present only in leaf. These findings are of importance in the establishment of diagnostic indices for the identification and standardization of the plant.

Pharmacognostic and Acute Toxicity Study of <i>Burkea Africana</i> Root

Burkea africana is a plant that belongs to then family Fabaceae; it is widely spread in tropical Africa including Nigeria. It is of valuable in ethnomedicine especially in the treatment of antidote for venomous stings and bites, cutaneous and sub cutaneous parasitic infection, convulsion and pulmonary troubles. Despite the fact that roots of Burkea africana have several medicinal properties, no standardization parameter has been assessed. Due to lack of standard parameters, proper identification and ascertaining quality and purity in the events of adulteration has been thwarted. The objective of the study was to establish some important pharmacognostic profile and safety margin of Burkea africana root with the hope of assisting in its standardization for quality, purity and safety. Elemental analysis was carried out using acid digestion method and phytochemical composition of the plants was evaluated using standard method. Acute toxicity was achieved using Lorke method to determine the LD50. Chemomicroscopical evaluation revealed the presence of cellulose, tannins, starch, lignin, calcium oxalate, suberin, aleurone grain and mucilage with the exception of calcium carbonate. The average moisture contents, total ash, acid insoluble, water soluble ash, alcohol extractive value and water extractive values in the powdered plant material were 3.8%, 7.5%, 4.43%, 8.07%, 25.0% and 20.33% respectively. In addition, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Cd and Cu were found to be within the safety limit. Phytochemicals which include alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, carbohydrates and triterpenes were detected in both aqueous and methanolic extracts. The LD50 of Burkea africana was found to be greater than 5000 mg /kg and could be considered safe for consumption.
 Keywords: Elemental analysis, Burkea africana, Pharmacognostic, Phytochemical

Pharamacognostic Profile and Comparative in vitro Anti- Inflammatory Activity Study of Ethanomedicinal Plants of North East India

Background: In ethno-medicinal practices, the leaves of Alocasia macrrorhizos, Canavalia ensiformis, Amaranthus cruentus, Averrhoea carambola, Bauhina tenifloara and Capsicum Chinese have different pharmacological activities. The problem encountered with the proper utilization of herbal drugs is lack of documentation and standard parameter, which create problem in acceptance and importance of these plants. Objective: The objectives of our study are to establish scientifically evaluated pharmacognostic profile and in vitro antiinflammatory screening of six plants. Methods: Leaf sample from each plant was evaluated by macroscopic, microscopic and physicochemical parameters (As per WHO recommended methods of standardization). The anti-inflammatory activity screening of methanolic extracts was carried out against inhibition of protein denaturation method taking diclofenac sodium as a benchmark. Results: The macroscopic characteristic and microscopical evaluation reveals the type of stomata within the leaves and presence of parenchyma cells, collenchyma cells, upper epidemis, lower epidermis, vascular bundle, palisade cells and trichomes in the transverse section of leaves. Physicochemical parameter reveals the total ash, acid insoluble ash, water soluble, methanol soluble extractives and moisture content. The IC50 value of MEAM, MECE, MEAC, MEAC1, MECC and MEBT against inhibiton of protein denaturation was found to be 72.88, 841.78, 735.12, 303.75, 188, and 354.1855 μg/mL respectively. Conclusion: The present study contributes useful information that will help in the exact identification as well as assessment of purity of crude drugs. Methanolic extract of Alocasia macrorrhizos could be a potential anti-inflammatory agent from the natural sources.

The Pharmacognostic Profile and Biological Potential of Traditional Medicinal Shrub Hibiscus hiritus L.

The proposed study has largely focused on two distinct lines of investigation. In the first approach, efforts have been made to evaluate macroscopic and microscopic pharmacognostic characteristics of Hibiscus hiritus L. In the second approach, the pharmacological potential of the whole plant extract was explored for in vitro antioxidant, antimicrobial and in vivo antiinflammatory activity. The extract and dry powdered plant material were screened for phytochemical constituents and other physiochemical parameters. Various microscopic characteristics of fresh leaves and stem of the plant (paradermal and T.S) were extensively evaluated. Methanol extract of the whole plant was used for pharmacological screening. Antioxidant potential of the extract was evaluated using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazil and hydroxyl radical scavenging assay using ascorbic acid as the standard. Antimicrobial property was evaluated using cup plate method against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Proteus vulgaris, Escherichia coli, Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans. Antiinflammatory potential was evaluated in the rat carrageenan-induced paw edema model. The IC50 values obtained in the antioxidant assay were, 42±0.06 and 2.8±1.64 % in the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazil and hydroxyl radical scavenging assay, respectively. Inhibitory activity was observed against Staphylococcus aureus (14±0.15 mm), Bacillus subtilis (14±0.13 mm) and Escherichia coli (14±0.16 mm). The study also revealed significant and dose-dependent antiinflammatory activity in the carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model. The present study explored the pharmacognostic features and the pharmacological potential of Hibiscus hiritus to provide evidence for the traditional therapeutic use of the plant as an antibacterial, antioxidant and antiinflammatory agent.

An Evaluation of Pharmacognostical Profile and Anti-hyperglycemic Activity of Coriandrum sativum

An Evaluation of Pharmacognostical Profile and Anti-hyperglycemic Activity of Coriandrum sativum

Pharmacognostic evaluation of aerial parts of Euphorbia tirucalli

Objectives: This study aimed to establish the pharmacognostic profile of aerial parts of Euphorbia tirucalli (ET) as per World Health Organization guidelines for ensuring the quality and identification of adulteration. Materials and Methods: Standardization parameters such as macroscopic and microscopic characteristics of the study plant were evaluated. Hydroalcoholic and ethyl acetate extracts were prepared and subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening. Further, the extracts were used to analyze total phenol and flavonoid contents, and their antioxidant activities were estimated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and nitric oxide assay. Results: Shape, size, color, odor, surface characteristics, and microscopic images exhibited useful diagnostic characteristics of aerial parts of plants. Total ash, water-soluble, and acid-insoluble ash were found to be 16.65' ± 1.050', 5.623' ± 1.11', and 2.56' ± 0.706, respectively. The loss on drying was 9.6', and water and alcoholic extractive values were 4.0' and 26', respectively. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of saponins, steroidal triterpenoids, phenols, and flavonoids. Total flavanoid and phenol content in hydroalcoholic and ethyl acetate extracts of ET was found to be 246 mg rut/g, 120 mg rut/g, 81.36 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g, and 279.58 mg GAE/g respectively. 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and nitric oxide scavenging assay revealed the IC50 values of hydroalcoholic and ethyl acetate extracts as 69.599 μg/ml, 20.454 μg/ml, 17.017 μg/ml, and 17.562, respectively. Conclusion: The findings obtained from the present study help to authenticate and establish the pharmacopeia standards for the ET plant.

Pharmacognostic Profile of Root and Stem of Indigofera Tirunelvelica Sanjappa

Pharmacognostic Profile of Root and Stem of Indigofera Tirunelvelica Sanjappa

Morphoanatomical and physicochemical studies on Ailanthus excelsa roxb. stem bark: a tree of heaven

Ailanthus excelsa Roxb. (Simaroubaceae) is a traditional medicinal plant used widely in India and China in various health conditions. The morphology and microscopical evaluation are most preferred quality control parameter, in order to establish its quality and purity, we report some important pharmacognostic profile of A. excelsa stem-bark for the purpose of its identification and differentiation from related species. The study of the fresh, powdered and anatomical sections of the stem bark were carried out to determine the morphological, microscopical, some physicochemical and phytochemical parameters. Presence of lignified multicellular trichrome, stone cells, scleroids, lignified pericyclic fibre, phloem fibre, prismatic calcium oxalate, starch grains and uni to multiserrate non-lignified medullary rays observed as distinguishing microscopical characteristics in transverse section and powder studies. The result of preliminary phytochemical screening indicated presence of alkaloids, glycoside, steroids, carbohydrates, proteins, phenolic compounds, tannins, flavonoids and saponins. In addition, quantitative phytochemical analysis revealed significant amount of total phenolic and flavonoid content. The present study will be useful for its identification prior to carrying out further research work.
 Keywords: Ailanthus excelsa; stem-bark; pharmacognostic; quantitative phytochemical analysis.

Pharmacognostic standardization and physicochemical evaluation of Caesalpinia crista L. root for quality control assessment

Background: Caesalpinia crista Linn. (Caesalpiniaceae) have been used widely as ethnomedicinal practices and traditional medicine for its medicinal values. Conventionally, the plant was used for the treatment of bladder stone, fever, leucorrhea, as a tonic for rheumatism and backache; there is no published data on standardization of the plant for its authenticity, quality, and purity. Aim: The present study was to scientifically establish a pharmacognostic profile of C. crista root as per standard procedures. Materials and Methods: The investigation deals with comprehensive pharmacognostical parameters were carried out by organoleptic, microscopic characters, physicochemical, and phytochemical studies. Results: The present study provides the general organoleptic, microscopic characteristics of the root. Physicochemical studies revealed total ash (9.20 ± 0.17), acid insoluble ash (1.25 ± 0.11), water-soluble ash (3.1 ± 0.05), alcohol-soluble extractive (11.54 ± 0.46), and water-soluble extractive (12.66 ± 0.24), respectively. Preliminary phytochemical screening of root revealed the presence of carbohydrates, proteins, alkaloids, triterpenoids, glycosides, flavonoids, tannins, diterpenes, glycosides, and saponins. Conclusion: These studies will provide referential information for the correct taxonomical identification, standardization, and establishing monograph of C. crista.

Phytochemical screening and anthelmintic activity of root extract of Hugonia mystax linn against Pheretima posthuma: an in vitro Study

Background: Helminth infections are among the most common infections in man in developing countries they pose a large threat to public. These infections can affect most population in endemic areas with major economic and social consequences. Objective: In this paper, an ethnomedicinal plant, Hugonia mystax Linn. Was evaluated for its preliminary phytochemical screening and in-vitro anthelmintic activity. Method: The earthworms resembled the intestinal roundworm parasites of human beings both anatomically and physiologically and hence where used to study the anthelmintic activity. The worms were acclimatized to the laboratory condition before experimentation. Results: Preliminary phytochemical screening showed the presence of various classes of secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, phenols, saponins, steroids, tannins and terpenoids. Anthelmintic activity of ethanolic extract of root showed significant activity. The anthelmintic activity revealed the medicinal potential of H. mystax to develop a drug against various human ailments. Conclusion: The present study brings detailed pharmacognostical profile of roots of Hugonia mystax L. The species, H. mystax has a restricted global distribution, occurring only in India and Sri Lanka. It is an unexplored medicinal plant in the Indian medicinal system. According to ethnobotanical information, the root powder of H. mystax is used as the best anti-dote, anthelmintic, febrifuge and for the treatment of peptic ulcers.

EVALUATION OF PHARMACOGNOSTICAL VARIATIONS IN EIGHT ACCESSION OF CURCUMA LONGA L.

Introduction: In recent days, usage of medicinal plants as an herbal drug to treat various kinds of ailments has got drastically increased. Conventionally, Curcuma longa (rhizome) is used in the treatment of inflammation, cancer, wound healing, diabetes, asthma, antioxidant, anti-aging, antimicrobial, etc. Materials and Methods: The present study deals with the pharmacognostic and preliminary phytochemical evaluation of different accessions of C. longa (rhizome). The pharmacognostical profiles include organoleptic study, microscopy evaluation of the rhizome, powder microscopy, physiochemical paramters and determination of total phenolic and flavonoid content were carried out. Results and Discussion: Results showed that there are significant pharmacognostical variations in different accessions of turmeric. Conclusions: The result of the present study is useful in establishing the standards for identification, authentication, and evaluation of the plant material and the variations as well.