Preliminary Phytochemical Screening Research Articles

Study the hepatoprotective effect of the methanolic extract of Plumbago auriculata Lam. against CCl4-induced hepatocyte damage in mice

The liver is an important organ in the body; its diseases are considered the major causes of morbidity and mortality around the world. Hepatotoxic chemicals cause damage to liver cells. Medicinal plants have a powerful hepatoprotective effect. This study has been aimed to assess the potential hepatoprotective effect of the methanolic extract of Plumbago auriculata Lam. against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)- induced hepatocyte damage in albino mice. The methanolic extract of the plant was subjected to preliminary phytochemical analysis to determine the presence of secondary metabolites according to standard protocols. The acute toxicity study was carried out to measure the LD50. Swiss albino mice were divided into 4 groups treated intraperitoneally (IP) once daily for 7 days; the first group was a negative control, while the second group, considered as a CCl4 model, received a single dose of carbon tetrachloride during the last day. The third group received 500 mg/kg of body weight of methanolic extract of P. auriculata, and the last group received 100 mg/kg of body weight of standard silymarin, after 2 h of treatment, on the last day, all animals (except negative control group) have received CCl4 at a dose of 1 mL/kg of body weight. Biochemical analysis of collected blood and histopathological examination were performed. Results revealed that the preliminary phytochemical screening of the methanolic extract of the plant confirmed the presence of many biologically active secondary metabolites like flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids, saponins, glycosides and phenols and LD50 of the extract was 2.5 g/kg. The CCl4- intoxicated mice showed an increase in biochemical enzyme levels (ALT and AST) compared with the negative control group. The extract of 500 mg/kg revealed a significant reduction (p ? 0.05) in enzyme activities. The histopathological analysis of plant extract and silymarin-treated groups revealed a decrease in the pathological features compared with the CCl4-intoxicated group. It was concluded that the extract of P. auriculata has a significant effect on hepatoprotection against CCl4-induced hepatocyte damage and this may be because of the combined effects of the bioactive compositions of plant extract.

Antiurolithiatic activity of Indian medicinal plant: Ocimum kilimandscharicum Gurke (Lamiaceae)

Urolithiasis is the most prevalent condition of the urinary system, characterized by the formation of stones inside the urinary tract. It is urgent to look for a natural urolithiasis therapy due to the serious side effects of conventional medications. Hydro-alcoholic (80% v/v) extract of the aerial parts of Ocimum kilimandscharicum (OK) and its ethyl acetate, chloroform, n-butanol, aqueous, and n-hexane fractions were subjected to in vitro antiurolithiatic screening as well as preliminary screening of phytochemicals. The in vitro antiurolithiatic activity of O. kilimandscharicum was studied using its hydroalcoholic extract (HAEOK). Calcium phosphate test using a colorimetric approach and calcium oxalate assay using a titrimetric model were used to determine the proportion of calcium oxalate crystals that dissolved. Total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) were measured for the extract and fractions of OK. Ethyl acetate fraction (EAFOK) had a greater capacity to suppress crystal formation in both the calcium phosphate and calcium oxalate assays. The percent dissolution of calcium oxalate by HAEOK and EAFOK (31.48 ± 0.920% and 39.21 ± 0.903%) and calcium phosphate crystals by HAEOK and EAFOK (59.03 ± 0.820% and 66.62 ± 0.468%) was determined, respectively. At p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, differences between the results were regarded as significant. Cystone was employed as a standard drug. This study revealed that EAFOK showed significant antiurolithiatic activity. The antiurolithiatic activity of the extract/fraction was attributed to the steroids, triterpenoids, and flavonoid content of OK.

Evaluation Of the Antifungal Activity of Cassia fistula (Linn) On Phytopathogenic Fungi Isolated from Citrus sinensis

Citrus sinensis is a prominent tropical fruit with nutritional and economic benefits for humans. However, it can also be plagued by fungal diseases, causing global economic and production reduction. The extensive application of synthetic fungicides in agricultural systems has posed increased toxicological risks to humans and ecosystems. However, the varying phytochemicals found in medicinal plants have enabled them to be regarded as safe and effective alternatives. However, few studies have evaluated the use of Cassia fistula extracts as potential bio-fungicides. This research purposed to evaluate the antifungal activity of Cassia fistula leaflet extracts against phytopathogenic fungi. Ethanol as well as aqueous extracts of Cassia fistula leaves were assessed for antifungal activity. The agar well-diffusion technique was implemented for in vitro screening, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of all different extracts against isolated fungal species of Aspergillus, Penicillium and Geotrichum. All fungal isolates identified from the spoiled oranges were Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Geotrichum sp. and Fusarium sp. Preliminary phytochemical screening exhibited the presence of carbohydrates, terpenoids, quinones and saponins in both ethanolic and aqueous extracts. At 1000 mg/ml, the aqueous and ethanolic extracts had the highest antifungal activity against A. flavus (40 mm) and Fusarium sp. (38 mm), respectively. Both extracts had no antifungal activity against A. fumigatus at 62.5 mg/ml but zones of inhibition were observed from the positive and negative controls of ketoconazole and DMSO, respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) were evaluated at 62.5 mg/ml and 250 mg/ml, respectively. This study’s findings demonstrated the antifungal potential of C. fistula leaf extracts as a bio-fungicidal agent against fungal invasion in plants.

EXPLORING THE HAEMOSTATIC POTENTIAL OF PANCHAVALKALA KASHAYA AND PANCHAVALKALA AQUEOUS EXTRACT: AN IN VITRO STUDY

Acharya Susrutha under the context of Rakthasthambhanopaya (methods of haemostasis) has explained about the different methods to attain Rakthasthambhana or haemostasis. which include Skandana (clotting of blood), Santhana (uniting), Pachana (ripening or digestive measures) and Dahana (thermal cauterisation). Acharya Susrutha while explaining about agantuja vrana chikitsa (treatment of wound) has explained that ‘Pittavat sheeta kriya’ should be done prior to santhana to mitigate the ‘Kshatoshmana’. So, from this it is evident the primary method of management should be done with sheeta (cold) followed by Kashaya rasa dravya (astringent taste drugs) for Santhana. Panchavalkala is a group drug with sheeta veerya (cold potency) and Kashaya rasa (astringent taste) mentioned in Dalhana commentary for Skandana. This study investigates the haemostatic effect of Panchavalkala Kashaya and Panchavalkala aqueous extract by in vitro method. Preliminary phytochemical screening of both trial drugs was done. A total of 10 samples of healthy human platelet poor plasma were mixed in trial drugs, Prothrombin and Activated Partial Thromboplastin time were determined. Data was analysed using Kruskal Wallis test. Phytochemical analysis confirmed that the Panchavalkala kashaya contain alkaloids, tannins, glycosides and saponins. Panchavalkala aqueous extract sample consist of flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, tannins and saponins. LCMS Q-TOF analysis shows the presence of compounds Gallic acid, Epicatechin, Leucocynidin and Procyanidin B1. And the HPLC study confirmed that Gallic acid is an active phytoconstituent present in the Panchavalkala aqueous extract. In the present study the trial group Panchavalkala aqueous extract showed more desirable haemostatic effect than Panchavalkala Kashaya on comparison.

Phytochemical investigation of Nigella sativa seed extract by HPTLC, HPLC and GC-MS: a comparative geographical study

This study aimed to ensure the quality of the seed as well as determine the phytochemical composition of Nigella sativa seed extract (NSSE) obtained from three different geographical locations. Pharmacognostic evaluation of the seed includes preliminary phytochemical screening, physicochemical evaluation, and study of heavy metal content, in addition to HPTLC, HPLC, and GC-MS studies of the extract obtained from the seed of the Nigella sativa (NS). HPTLC fingerprinting studies revealed the presence of various bioactive compounds. HPLC analysis confirms the quantitative variation of thymoquinone (TQ) in the extracts, i.e. the maximum quantity of TQ was found in Vizag NSSE, followed by Punjab and Madhya Pradesh. GC-MS analysis reveals the presence of 33, 35, and 32 constituents in the extract obtained from Vizag, Madhya Pradesh, and Punjab, respectively. This study confirms the variation in the phytochemical composition as well as in the biomarker (Thymoquinone) content present in the collected samples.

GREEN SYNTHESIS OF TITANIUM OXIDE (TIO2) NANOPARTICLES USING Phyllanthus Niruri AND ASSESSMENT OF ITS PHYSIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS IN WASTEWATER TREATMENT

This study investigates the green synthesis of titanium oxide (TiO2) nanoparticles, NPs and assessment of its physiochemical parameters in wastewater treatment. The methanol plant extract of Phyllanthus niruri was utilized for the biosynthesis of titanium oxide NPs. The preliminary phytochemical screening carried out on Phyllanthus niruri plant extract was conducted to identify the bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, terpenoids, anthraquinones, glycosides and steroids which may be responsible for stabilizing the nanoparticles synthesized. In the treatment of the industrial wastewater sample; the result indicated that the use of the synthesized titanium oxide nanoparticles led to percentage reduction of 67.21%, 58.96%, 91.19%, 75.56% and 94.67% for BOD, COD, turbidity, oil and grease and phosphate respectively, in the raw wastewater; and was more effective than the use of commercial titanium oxide NPs. The study indicates that synthesis of titanium oxide NPs using Phyllanthus niruri is a better alternative to chemical synthesis of NPs, the green synthesized material is eco-friendly and can serve as a treatment for industrial effluents.

Phytochemical Screening and Antibacterial Activity of Ethanolic Extracts from Delonix regia Against Laboratory Strains of Diarrheal Bacteria

The present study evaluates the antibacterial efficacy of ethanolic extracts from <em>Delonix regia</em> leaves against diarrhea-inducing bacteria <em>Escherichia coli</em> and <em>Salmonella typhimurium</em>. Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed that <em>D. regia</em> leaves comprise flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, tannins, phenolics, and terpenoids. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis identified various functional groups in the <em>D. regia</em> leaf extract, including O-H, C-H, C=O, C=C, C-C, C-O, and C-O-C. Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry/Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis further confirmed the presence of 16 distinct compounds comprising amino acids, alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, terpenoids, anthraquinones, n-acyl pyrrolidines, and fatty acids. The disc diffusion method (Kirby-Bauer) was employed for the antibacterial tests. The extracts of <em>D. regia</em> leaves at concentrations of 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% generated inhibition zones measuring 5.26 mm, 6.37 mm, 7.27 mm, and 10.18 mm against <em>E. coli</em>, and 5.05 mm, 7.01 mm, 8.77 mm, and 10.04 mm against <em>S. typhimurium</em>, respectively. The commercial antibiotic ciprofloxacin (a positive control) produced inhibition zones of 30.02 mm for <em>E. coli</em> and 28 mm for <em>S. typhimurium</em>. The negative control, consisting of 10% ethanol, showed no inhibitory effect on bacterial growth. These findings indicate that the ethanolic extract of <em>D. regia</em> leaves possesses antibacterial properties against <em>E. coli</em> and <em>S. typhimurium</em>. It is likely that secondary metabolite compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolics, contribute significantly to the observed antibacterial activity

Standardization and Phytochemical screening of Abutilon crispum

The main objective of the research is to recognize, validate and also to avoid the adulteration of plant Abutilon crispum. The correct identification of the plant Abutilon crispum was possible because of preliminary phytochemical screening, extraction by maceration and standardization. Preliminary phytochemical screening and TLC studies were carried out by standard methods with extracts such as chloroform, ethyl acetate and methanol. While standardization comprises the evaluation of parameters like pH range, water-soluble ash, loss on drying, total ash, acid insoluble ash, sulfated ash, ethanol-extractable parameters. The following values are found to be the results of the above testsi.e, loss on drying and total ash values are 7.2±0.22 and 6.32±0.04 correspondingly, water soluble ash was 1.33±0.05. Preliminary phytochemical evaluation for these extracts discovered the occurrence of flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids, glycosides and alkaloids in this plant. In methanol extract also major components such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins and glycosides were found. The thin layer chromatography examination of Abutilon crispum displayed the occurrence of steroids with0.76 and 0.52 Rf values in diverse solvent systems. TLC investigation of extract of ethyl acetate exhibited Rf values 0.74 and 0.81 due to occurrence of flavonoids with in dissimilar solvent systems similarly. The evidence found from contemporary study deliver valuable data that will be supportive in identifying and to perform upcoming research in future.

Phytochemical profiling and GC-MS analysis of methanolic leaf extract of Persicaria hydropiper (L.) H. Gross: An important ethnomedicinal plant

Medicinal plants are the best source of alternative medicine and are acquiring recognition in the area of pharmacological research for the production of plant-based medicines with improved efficacy. Persicaria hydropiper (L.) H-Gross is known worldwide for its use in traditional medicine systems. It possesses numerous therapeutic properties. The present endeavor was taken up to analyze the phytochemical profile and antioxidant activity by DPPH assay of various extracts of Persicaria hydropiper leaves. The preliminary phytochemical screening of acetone, methanol, and aqueous extract of P. hydropiper leaves showed the presence of important phytochemicals such as phenols, tannins, flavonoids, glycosides, terpenoids, and alkaloids. The quantitative estimation revealed elevated amounts of total phenols, flavonoids, tannins, and total alkaloid content. The antioxidant activity also revealed higher radical scavenging activity by the extracts. The Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrophotometry assay of methanol extract of P. hydropiper leaves detected and identified altogether 54 phytocompounds including 7 major compounds displaying higher peaks such as Andrographolide, 1H-cyclopropa[a] naphthalene, 1a,2,3,5.6,7a7b-octahydro-1,1,7,7a-tetramethyl-[1aR-(1a?,7?,7a?,7b?)-, Cis-Z alpha bisabolene epoxide, 1,8-cyclopentadecadiyne, Aromadendrene oxide (2), Bicyclo[4.1.0]heptane-3-cyclopropyl 7-hydroxymethyl, (cis) and Alpha-guanine. The concentration of phenols, flavonoids, and tannins revealed in the phytochemical profiling of three extracts might be responsible for the strong antioxidant activity of the extracts and the bioactive compounds identified in the GC-MS investigation exhibit important therapeutic properties required for the treatment of various human diseases. Thus, the medicinal use and properties of Persicaria hydropiper may be attributed to the presence of these phytochemical constituents. Further study of the compounds may provide scope for the production of novel drugs with increased efficacy and potency with the ability to cure harmful human diseases.

Preliminary Phytochemical Screening and Ethno-medical Importance of Sword Bean

Canavalia gladiata (jacq)DC is a lesser-known bean commonly called sword bean. This study deals with the preliminary phytochemical screening and ethno-medicinal properties of sword beans. The phytochemical assessments of the sword bean seed show the medicinal value of the plant. Alkaloids, Tannins, terpenoids, flavonoids, Cardiac glycosides, Reducing sugars, Proteins, and Carbohydrates showed positive results in three types of solvents viz., water, Methanol, and Acetone solvents. The whole 1Q2plant of sword bean used in many traditional and ethano-medicinal practices by their applications.

Evaluation and method development for quantification of Piperine in Hutabhugadi Churna by RP- HPLC

Aim and Objective: The current work was aimed at preparing the Hutabhugadi Churna in the laboratory and evaluating the same including the method development for the estimation of a marker compound Piperine by using RP-HPLC. Methods: Prepared Hutabhugadi churna was subjected for macroscopic, physical, and chemical evaluation considering WHO guidelines. The methanolic extract was subjected for estimation of Piperine as marker using RP-HPLC. Results: The macroscopic characteristics like colour, odour and taste are recorded. The physical characteristics like loss on drying, ash value, extractive value, swelling index, foaming index, powder properties like angle of repose, bulk density, tapped density, compressibility index etc. were determined. Total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, preliminary phytochemical screening was also carried out. The results are compared with marketed formulation of Hutabhugadi churna. The retention time of the standard Piperine was found to be 5.517, while the Piperine in extracts of laboratory and marketed formulations was found to be was found to be 5.554 and 5.562 respectively. The concentration of Piperine in laboratory and marketed formulation was found to be 0.17 %w/w and 0.18 % w/w respectively. The method developed was also validated. Conclusion: The laboratory made Hutabhugadi churna and marketed formulation of Hutabhugadi churna was comparatively evaluated. The resulting data will be useful for the standardization of the Hutabhugadi churna, an Ayurvedic formulation.

Phytochemical analysis and antioxidant potential of Pseudolachnostylis maprouneifolia

Pseudolachnostylis maproneifolia is a popular medicinal plant, particularly revered in the eastern province of Zambia, especially within Petauke District. Despite its widespread application in traditional medicine, the chemical composition of this plant has not been studied so far. Consequently, there was a pressing need to investigate the medicinal potential of its leaf extract. This study was carried out through preliminary phytochemical screening and GC-MS analysis of the ethanolic extract. The phytochemical profile revealed various secondary metabolites endowed with antifungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-cancer, antibacterial, antiviral, and antioxidative properties. To quantify its medicinal potential, the total flavonoid content (TFC) and total phenolic content (TPC) was determined using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer. The methanolic extract exhibited a TFC of 157.20 mg QE/g and a TPC of 63.75 mg GAE/g, with an IC50 value of 45.57 μg/mL, signifying a strong antioxidant capability. Notably, the IC50 value of the standard (ascorbic acid) was 23.19 μg/mL. Further analysis involved quantifying the mineral elements crucial for treating anemia, such as iron, copper, zinc, and manganese. AAS based analysis revealed concentrations of these elements to be relatively higher, indicating their suitability for treating anemia. Complementing these findings, in silico molecular analysis and ADMET analysis of five selected phytochemicals, along with a reference cancer drug, yielded promising results such as a highest binding energy of -9.01 Kcal/mol, high gastrointestinal absorption and the lowest inhibition constant of 249.88 nM. These outcomes strongly advocate for subsequent in vitro and in vivo studies on these molecules, supporting their importance as potential drug candidates for cancer drug development.

Preliminary Phytochemical screening of root extract of Martynia annua

Preliminary Phytochemical screening of root extract of Martynia annua

Antipyretic and Antinociceptive Effect of the Methanol Leaf Extract of Ficus asperifolia in Murine Models

Pyrexia occurs as a result of the resetting of the hypothalamic set-point. Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs used for the treatment of fever and related illnesses are associated with side effects including gastrointestinal irritation, bleeding, ulcers and perforation. In traditional medicine, many plants have been found to possess antipyretic activity. Ficus asperifolia (Miq), family Moraceae has been traditionally used to treat pain and fevers. The aim of the study was thus to evaluate the antipyretic and antinociceptive activity of the methanol leaf extract of Ficus asperifolia (FME) in murine models. Preliminary phytochemical screening and oral acute toxicity studies were conducted using standard protocols. Antipyretic activity was evaluated using the Brewer’s yeast induced pyrexia model. Antinociceptive effects were investigated using the acetic acid and thermal induced models. The mechanism of action of the plant was also evaluated against several antagonists. FME significantly (p<0.05) and dose dependently reduced yeast induced pyrexia. FME at doses 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg significantly (p<0.05) decreased acetic acid induced abdominal writhes and increased the mean reaction time of mice to thermal-induced pain stimulus. Pre-treatment of mice with naloxone (a non-selective opioid receptor antagonist), glibenclamide (a potassium channel blocker) and L-NNA (a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor) significantly reversed the analgesic action of the extract suggesting that the activity is likely mediated via the involvement of these pathways.

Acute and Sub-Chronic Toxicity Profile of Aqueous Fruit Extract of Spondias Purpurea Linn (Anacardiaceae): In Wistar Rats

This study aimed to investigate the toxicological profile of aqueous fruit extract of Spondias purpurea (AFES) in Wistar rats. The AFES was subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening, acute and sub-chronic toxicity studies which were conducted using standard methods. Sub-chronic (90 days) toxicity studies were carried out on four (4) groups. The first group received distilled water (1 ml/kg). Groups 2, 3 and 4 received AFES (250, 500 and 1,000 mg/kg respectively). The effect of the extract on body weight, relative organ weights, haematological and biochemical (kidney function, liver function and lipid profile) parameters as well as histopathological studies of the organs (liver, kidney, lungs, brain, heart, stomach and testes) was investigated. Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, saponins, sterols, triterpenes, steroids and tannins. The oral median lethal dose (LD50) was greater than 5,000 mg/kg. Sub-chronic administration of AFES did not produce significant (p > 0.05) changes in body weights, relative organ weights, haematological and biochemical parameters of treated rats. However, there was a significant (p < 0.05) increase in urea at 250 mg/kg, a decrease in sodium ion at 500 and 1,000 mg/kg in a dose-dependent manner and decrease in chloride ion as well as decrease in triglycerides at 1,000 mg/kg treatment groups. Histopathology investigation revealed some levels of damage to the organs; liver, kidney, testis, lung and heart of the extract treated animals. These findings suggest that aqueous fruit extract of S. purpurea is relatively safe on acute administration. However, sub-chronic administration could result in mild toxic effects.

Investigation of Antimicrobial Activity of Aloe vera and it’s Application

Aloe vera consists of about 420 species, and has been used as a traditional medicine for about 3000 years. The preliminary phytochemical screening of the aloe vera gel powder revealed the presence of steroids, phenolics, glycosides, alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins and tannins. Invitro antibacterial studies on the leaf extract were carried out on medically important bacterial strains, including Bacillus subtilis, Candida albicans using agar disc diffusion method. The bacterial strains were exposed to the following four different concentrations of extracts: 25µl, 50 µl, 75 µl and 100 µl. The result of our antibacterial assay revealed that the extract showed good inhibitory activity against all the tested pathogens.

In vivo anti-inflammatory activity of the essential oil of zingiber officinale rhizomes on Wistar rats

Background: Zingiber officinale is a spice consumed in Chad and traditionally used against osteoarthritis, migraine and rheumatic pain, but few pharmacological studies of this plant have been carried out. The aim of this study was to assess the in vivo anti-inflammatory activity of Z. officinale rhizomes essential oil (EO). Methods: A preliminary phytochemical screening was carried out on the EO of Z. officinale rhizomes; the anti-inflammatory activity of the given plant extract was then assessed at the concentrations of 0.20%, 1% and 5% on three experimental models: egg yolk-induced oedema, cotton pellet-induced granuloma and formalin. In addition, the essential oil was tested for its in vitro antioxidant capacity using the 2,2-Diphényl-2-picryl-hydrazyle Free Radical Scavenging Test, acide 2,2'-azino-bis 3éthylbenz- thiazoline-6-sulfonique Radical Test and the Ferric reducing antioxidant power Test. The study was extended to the acute toxicity of the EO of the rhizomes of Z. officinale using the sequential method. Results: Qualitative phytochemical screening of the EO of Z. officinale rhizome revealed the presence of tannins, flavonoids, triterpenes, terpenoids and free quinones. In the egg yolk-induced edema model, the EO of Z .officinale rhizomes significantly inhibited (p < 0.01) oedema by 25.28%, 31.12% and 68.27% at the concentrations of 0.20%, 1% and 5%, respectively, when compared to controls. In the formalin-induced paw edema model, EO of Z. officinale rhizomes inhibited oedema by 24.27%, 30.14% and 43.14% at the concentrations of 0.20%, 1% and 5%, respectively, when compared to the controls. In the cotton pellet-induced granuloma model, EO of Z. officinale rhizomes induced an anti-granulomatous effect of 32.68%, 38.27% and 41.51% at the concentrations of 0.20%, 1% and 5%, respectively, as compared to controls. Additionally, the EO of the rhizomes of Z. officinale also induced in vitro antioxidant and free radical scavenging activity and iron reduction. Definitely, the LD50 of the EO of Z. officinale rhizomes was estimated as more than 2000 mg/kg b.w. Conclusion: The EO of Z. officinale rhizomes exhibited anti-inflammatory activity. This effect can be explained, at least partly to its chemical content and its antioxidant potential.

Pharmacognostic study and preliminary phytochemical investigation of Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Wall. ex Nees

Andrographis paniculata (family –Acanthaceae) is an annual herbaceous plant with branches that grows up to a height of 50-150 cm in moist, shaded areas. Its stem is abruptly quadrangular, heavily branched, and has a delicate texture that is readily broken. It is found in Southeast Asia, tropical and subtropical Asia, and a few other nations like Vietnam, Cambodia, and the Caribbean islands, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Thailand etc. It is widely used in different traditional medicinal systems or countries for medicinal purposes by the traditional practitioners, tribes or community as a folklore remedies. The present communication provides a detailed account of the pharmacognostic study carried out on various parts of the Andrographis paniculata. The study includes macroscopy, microscopy, powder microscopic studies, physicochemical tests, preliminary phytochemical screening, development of HPTLC (High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography) fingerprints profile and heavy metal tests. Physicochemical parameters were performed and found average values of three parts (root, stem and leaf) such as root loss on drying at 1050C 4.93% w/w, total ash value 10.16% w/w, acid insoluble ash value 0.21% w/w, alcohol soluble extractive value 13.98% w/w and water soluble extractive value 25.77%w/w. Stem loss on drying at 1050C 6.23% w/w, total ash value 6.88% w/w, acid insoluble ash value 0.25% w/w, alcohol soluble extractive value 18.46% w/w and water soluble extractive value 21.94%w/w and leaf loss on drying at 1050C was found 6.29% w/w, total ash value 7.30% w/w, acid insoluble ash value 0.13% w/w, alcohol soluble extractive value 21.93% w/w and water soluble extractive value 38.68%w/w. HPTLC (High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography) fingerprints profile of methanolic extract was done by using mobile phase toluene: ethyl acetate (7:3). Andrographolide and Ferullic acid standard markers were applied, major spots Rf values with colour were recorded before derivatization at 254nm. Rf values are 0.25 black, leaf, stem and root with Andrographolide standard marker, and 0.20 light black color of stem, and root with Ferullic acid standard marker. Andrographolide is higher present in leaf which was range from 1.51-162 than the stem range1.46-153 and root range 1.45-1.150, while Ferulic acid was higher present in stem range from 0.91-0.96 than root 0.76-0.82 but absent in leaf. Heavy metals i.e Pb, Cd, As, & Hg were tested and found under WHO limits Established parameters can be used as standards for quality control and identification of the plant in herbal compound formulations and also preparation of a monograph of the plant.

Phytochemical Screening and In Vitro Antioxidant Activity of Three Nepalese Plants

Nepal is rich in plant resources and holds the 49th spot in the world’s biodiversity. The variation in altitude, climatic conditions, and geographical features across Nepal make it a rich source of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAPs). The study was carried out to perform the preliminary phytochemical screening and assess antioxidant properties in Ficus neriifolia, Rubus treutleri, and Periploca calophylla. Plants were selected based on their ethnomedical use and scant scientific research. Ethanol (70%) and aqueous extracts were prepared by using the cold maceration method and preliminary phytochemical screening was conducted using the previously established method to test the presence of biologically active phytoconstituent. In vitro, antioxidant activity was examined by DPPH free radical scavenging assay. The results revealed the variation in phytoconstituents among the 70% ethanol and aqueous extracts of all three plant samples. Among the samples, the 70% ethanol extract of P. calophylla exhibited the highest antioxidant activity with an IC50 value of 94.36 μg/mL, while the aqueous extract of F. neriifolia showed the minimum antioxidant activity with an IC50 value of 902.23 μg/mL. This study indicates that these plant samples possess potent natural antioxidants capable of scavenging free radicals that cause cellular damage and contribute to various diseases in our bodies.

Preliminary Phytochemical Screening and Acute Toxicity Study of Methanol leaf extracts of Musanga cercropioides

Musanga cercropioides is a plant that is used to treat a variety of ailments in many African countries. However, just a few studies have been conducted to assess the toxicity of the various sections of this plant. The goal of this study was to determine the toxicity profile of Musanga cercropioides methanol leaf extract in albino rats. Lorke's approach was used to conduct an acute toxicity study. In the first phase, nine (9) albino rats were randomly divided into three (3) groups of three (3) animals each. Each of the animals were orally administered 10,100 and 1000 mg/kg body weight of the extract. In the second phase, twelve (12) animals were used, which were divided into four groups of three (3) animals each. The first three groups received single doses of 1500, 3000, and 5000 mg/kg, respectively, while the fourth group which served as a control was given distilled water orally. After observation for 14 days, no signs of mortality were identified. The maximum dose supplied (5000 mg/kg body weight) did not affect the test animals' mortality or general behavior. When the treated groups were compared to the control groups, there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in biochemical markers, body weight, or relative organ weights of liver, kidney, heart, and spleen. These findings show that oral administration of Musanga cercropioides methanol leaf extract is safe at a dose of up to 5000 mg/kg body weight in Wistar albino rats.