Preliminary Phytochemical Studies Research Articles

Pharmacognostic and Preliminary Phytochemical studies on leaf and fruit of Adansonia digitata L.

Background: Adansonia digitata, the baobab, is the well-known tree species of the genus Adansonia. Aim and Objectives: Review reveals that the leaves and fruit of the plant are used traditionally in the treatment of fever, diarrhea, dysentery, ophthalmic, insect bites, inflammation, and pain. Although it is used traditionally, scientifically the plant is yet to be evaluated for its pharmacognostical characters. Hence, the plant parts were subjected to macro-microscopic, photomicrographic, physicochemical, and preliminary phytochemical tests to fix the quality standards for this drug. Method: Plant authentication, pharmacognostical study, physicochemical and phytochemical study was performed by following standard procedures as per Ayurvedic Pharmacopeia of India. Results: Microscopy of T. S. of rachis shows circular to orbicular in shape, in the cortical region parenchyma cells heavily loaded by tannin content, cluster and rosette crystals. Schematic outline of T. S. of the leaflet is bulged in the center and consist of the outer epidermis, mesophyll cells differentiated into upper palisade and lower spongy parenchyma while lower epidermis interrupted by anisocytic type of stomata. T.S. of fruit shows the presence of epidermis followed by layers of stone cells and sclerids and T.S. of seed shows outer hard testa, spool cells layer, inner large endosperm. Both samples show Loss on drying less than 6% and very few amounts of acid insoluble ash which directly indicate the amount of inorganic residue. Fruits are slightly acidic in nature. Qualitative tests showed the presence of carbohydrate, tannin, flavonoid, and steroids in leaves and fruits. Conclusion: This study would be useful in the identification and authentication of the raw drug.

ANTIBACTERIAL PROPERTY AND MOLECULAR DOCKING STUDIES OF METHANOLIC FUNGAL PHYTOCHEMICALS OF CLAVICEPS PURPUREA INFECTED TO BAJRA (PENNISETUM GLAUCUM) CROP

Objective: The objective of this study is to study the antibacterial activity, minimum inhibitory concentration, preliminary phytochemical studies, molecular docking studies, and high-resolution liquid chromatography mass spectrometer (HR-LCMS) analysis of the methanol fungal extract of Claviceps purpurea. 
 Methods: Mass production of the fungal mat of C. purpurea was established on potato dextrose broth medium. The dried methanol extract of fungus was subjected to HR-LCMS analysis; antibacterial screening of the extract was carried out against pathogenic bacteria. Molecular docking study of HR-LCMS identified compounds was performed by docking with bacterial enzyme DNA gyrase.
 Results: HR-LCMS analysis of methanol extract of C. purpurea fungus shows that the compounds arecoline, benperidol, felbamate, solanidine, and triparanol as the major constituents. The antibacterial screening of methanol extract of fungus against bacterial pathogens showed a significant bactericidal activity against the strains Pseudomonas aeruginosa (14.40±0.04 mm), Xanthomonas campestris (13.60±0.06 mm), Escherichia coli (13.40±0.06 mm), Salmonella Typhi (11.50±0.05 mm), Staphylococcus aureus (11.37±0.04 mm.), and as matched to the standard drug ciprofloxacin. The molecular docking of triparanol against the bacterial enzyme DNA gyrase showed good binding affinity of −6.2 kcal/mol, good drug likeness (7.3767), 2 hydrogen bonds, and hydrophobic interaction with 8 amino acid residues so that triparanol shows good inhibitor as compared to other 4 compounds.
 Conclusion: Methanol fungal extract of C. purpurea showed significant antibacterial activity against pathogenic bacteria. Triparanol is the major compound present in C. purpurea fungus which showed good inhibitory activity against bacterial enzyme DNA gyrase. The methanol extract of C. purpurea fungus displayed a good antibacterial drug.

IN VITRO ANTI-INFLAMMATORY ACTIVITY OF METHANOLIC EXTRACT AND DIFFERENT FRACTIONS OF CENTELLA ASIATICA LEAVES BY PROTEIN DENATURATION

Inflammation might be a complex organic reaction to a hazardous stimulant such as pathogens, or injured tissues and mainly causes itching, swelling, skin redness, warm and slight pain. Herbal drugs are widespread in India for their effectiveness, easy availability at low cost and provide low toxicity as compared to modern drugs. Centella asiatica is one of the oldest Ayurvedic medicinal plants, used in treatment of various skin diseases. The aim of our present research was to evaluate the in vitro anti-inflammatory activity of methanolic extract and different fractions of C. asiatica leaves. In protein denaturation method, the percentage inhibition for methanolic extract was observed to be 40.22%. The petroleum ether and n-butanol fraction of methanolic extract of C. asiatica were observed to exhibits 54.12 and 44.42% inhibition, respectively. Diclofenac sodium was used as a standard drug. In comparison with other fractions petroleum ether and n-butanol fractions showed best activity. The preliminary phytochemical studies of n-butanol fractions and n-butanol fractions showed the presence of terpenoids, flavonoids etc., which are used in the treatment of inflammation. Thus, we can call the latter as intense anti-inflammatory agent.

In Vitro Antioxidant and Bactericidal Efficacy of 15 Common Spices: Novel Therapeutics for Urinary Tract Infections?

Background and Objectives: Bacterial urinary tract infection (UTI) is the most common ailment affecting all age groups in males and females. The commercial antibiotics usage augments antibiotics resistance and creates higher recurrence rates of such communal infections. Hence, this study is aimed at investigating the antibacterial and antioxidant potentials of 15 common spices against 11 UTI-causing bacterial pathogens. Materials and Methods: The antioxidant potential of the methanolic extracts was analyzed as contents of total phenols and flavonoids; radical scavenging, total reducing power, the ferric reducing power assay. Urinary pathogens were subjected to spice extracts to investigate antibacterial assays. Results: Preliminary phytochemical study of spices was performed to find those containing alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and steroids that can be recognized for their noteworthy bactericidal effects. The outcome of the antioxidative potential from the four methods demonstrated the sequence of potent antioxidant activity: Acorus calamus >Alpinia galanga > Armoracia rusticana > Capparis spinosa > Aframomum melegueta. The total polyphenols and flavonoids in the studied species positively correlated with their antioxidant properties. The four most effective spices (A. calamus, A. galanga, A. rusticana, and C. spinosa) had a zone of inhibition of at least 22 mm. A. calamus, A. melegueta, and C. spinosa had the lowest minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value against Enterobacter aerogenes, Staphylococcus aureus and Proteus mirabilis. All 15 spices had the lowest minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) value against most of the pathogenic bacteria. Conclusion: The four highly potent and unique spices noted for the in vitro control of UTI-causing pathogens could be pursued further in the development of complementary and alternative medicine against UTI-causing pathogens.

In vitro culture of the endangered plant Eryngium viviparum as dual strategy for its ex situ conservation and source of bioactive compounds

Different Eryngium species have been used with ornamental, agricultural and medicinal purposes, as a consequence of their chemical constituents. In the southwest Europe the endemic Eryngium viviparum, presents a high risk of extinction and ex situ strategies are high recommended for efficient conservation and re-introduction program. The objective of this study was to satisfy a dual objective: (i) to develop an ex situ conservation strategy through micropropagation and (ii) taking advantage of the extraordinary potential of plant tissue culture, produce a considerable amount of plant material to carry out a preliminary phytochemical study, based on the accumulation of phenolic compounds and their associated antioxidant activity. First a factorial design was conducted in order to study the effect of two cytokinins (6- benzylaminopurine, BAP, and kinetin, KIN), at three levels (0, 1 and 2 mg L−1), on shoot multiplication. Later another factorial design was applied, by using three levels of MS medium salt strength (full, half and quarter- strength) and four sucrose levels (0, 1, 2, and 3%) for improving shoot elongation and rooting. In parallel, a preliminary quantification of total phenolic and flavonoid contents from E. viviparum aerial parts was determined. The simple micropropagation protocol designed allowed obtaining a high rates of shoot multiplication (5.1–5.8 new shoots), rooting (100%) with healthy long roots (3.1–3.5 cm) and plantlet acclimatization (96%). Moderate antioxidant activity was recorded in hydromethanolic extracts from E. viviparum aerial parts. High correlation between total phenolic content and BAP levels in the culture media was found. In conclusion, the micropropagation procedure described here for the endangered E. viviparum can be used as new and very efficient ex situ conservation strategy, and as potential source of antioxidants, conferring an added-value to this plant.

Phyto Physicochemical Profile of Withania somnifera Dunal (Solanaceae)

Introduction- The present article deals with study of phytochemical analysis of Withania somnifera Dunal roots. Withania somnifera also known as Ashwagandha or winter cherry. Various preparations of Ashwagandha (WS) are available in the market used in the treatment of many clinical conditions in India. Objective- Evolution of Physico-chemical values and phytochemical analysis of Ashwagandha Churna. Materials and Methods- The current investigation deals with extraction and detection or screening of active phytochemical compounds from different extracts of Withania somnifera root. Pharmacognostic studies, Physicochemical studies, Preliminary phytochemical studies was carried out. Result and conclusion - The result drown were 2% foreign mater was determined. Loss on drying 1.6%, total ash obtained was 9 %, acid insoluble ash was 1% and water soluble extractive was 12 % and Alcohol soluble extractive was 13 %. The phytochemical investigation revealed the presence of various phytochemical constituents such as alkaloids, flavonoids, carbohydrate, Steroids and Saponin Glycoside. Keywords: Ashwagandha, Withania Somnifera, Phytochemical.

PHARMACOGNOSTICAL STANDARDIZATION AND HIGH-PERFORMANCE THIN-LAYER CHROMATOGRAPHY FINGERPRINT OF ROOTS OF ANTHOCEPHALUS CADAMBA

Objective: Anthocephalus cadamba is a traditional medicinal plant which is valued for its benefits in the management of various ailments. The current study was aimed to provide requisite pharmacognostic details and high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) fingerprint profile for the roots of A. cadamba.
 Methods: Pharmacognostic evaluation included examination of morphological and microscopic characters, physicochemical analysis, fluorescence study, preliminary phytochemical analysis, and HPTLC fingerprint.
 Results: The microscopic studies showed the presence of thick periderm, cortical zone, secondary phloem, and secondary xylem. Microscopic examination of root powder showed abundant fibers and vessel elements. The physicochemical analysis of root powder helped in the assessment of quality control parameters. Fluorescence analysis of root powder imparted characteristic colors on the treatment of the powder with different reagents. Preliminary phytochemical studies reported the presence of alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids, glycosides, tannins, and other phenolic compounds. The developed qualitative densitometric HPTLC fingerprint can be used as an identifying biochemical marker for ethanol extract of the roots of A. cadamba.
 Conclusion: The present study provides the information with respect to identification and authentication of crude drug and serves as a reference point for the proper identification of roots of this medicinal plant, thereby contributing to the scientific world of research.

Characterization of Pharmacognostical and Preliminary Phytochemical Features of Tubers of Dioscorea oppositifolica L.

Journal of Ayurveda Medical Sciences,2018,3,3,413-419.DOI:10.5530/jams.2018.3.21Published:April 2019Type:Original ArticleAuthors:Ravikrishna Sagri, Shrikanth Padigar, Tantrady Shridhara Bairy, and Suchitra Narayan Prabhu Author(s) affiliations:Ravikrishna Sagri *, Shrikanth Padigar, Tantrady Shridhara Bairy, Suchitra Narayan Prabhu1 Department of Dravyaguna, Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara College of Ayurveda and Hospital, 1Department of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry, Sri Dharmathala Manjunatheshara Centre for Research in Ayurveda and Allied Sciences, Kuthpady, Udupi 574118, India. Abstract:Introduction: Ayurveda opines that the plants which are grown in one’s own vicinity should be used for food and medicinal needs, though beneficial either as food or as medicine there are many less explored plants. Rare knowledge on folklore plants is passed on from generations to generations traditionally. One such plant is Dioscorea oppositifolia L. (Dioscoreaceae) found frequently in and around Udupi locally known as Kaadu genasu. The plant is large climber with numerous cylindrical tubers which are consumed as food as it is very nutritive and used as food during famine. On account of these utilities of this less explored plant material, a detailed pharmacognostical study including macro and microscopy was conducted. Methods: Tubers of D. oppositifolia L. was subjected to organoleptic, macro microscopic, physicochemical, HPTLC , nutritional values assessment, characterization employing standard methodology mentioned in pharmacopoeia and other herbal analysis protocols. Results: The matured tubers of D. oppositifolia L. is on an average 25 cm in length 3 to 4 cm in diameter; cylindrically elongated; outer surface is off white with lot of rootlets and cut inner surface is white and mucilaginous. TS of tuber consists of 3 to 5 layers of thin-walled cork cells, followed by cortex formed from thin-walled parenchyma having lot of starch grains; ground tissue consists of parenchyma cells consisting of cells with contents, starch grains and acicular crystals; endodermis layer which is distinct is present following cortex; groups of scattered vascular bindles, comprising of vessels with crown of phloem patches occur towards the inner regions. Preliminary phytochemical study revealed the presence of alkaloids, steroids, carbohydrates and saponins. HPTLC photo documentation showed. No spot under short UV, 4 bands under long UV and 5 bands under white light after derivatisation with vanillin sulphuric acid reagent. Conclusion: Results of this study can be utilized for identification of the drug as well as systematic document on purity standards of this extra pharmacopoeial drug. Keywords:Dioscoreaceae, Folklore, Kaadu genasu, Pharmacopoeia, StandardizationView:PDF (2.92 MB)

Preliminary phytochemical study and antibacterial activity of Tamarindus indica leaves

Preliminary phytochemical study and antibacterial activity of Tamarindus indica leaves

Anti-epileptic Activity of Carica papaya seed extract in Experimental Animals

In the present study an attempt were made to evaluate and prove the Anti-Epileptic activity of Carica papaya. Seed extract in experimental animals. The papaya seed was collected from local garden of deralaktte D.K district. it was subjected for shade drying and size reduced to powders and extracted by maceration technique with ethanol. Preliminary phytochemical studies qualitative analysis to test the chemical constituents and acute toxicity studied were carried to determine a sage dosage regimen for testing the extract as per OECD guideline and Limit 2000mg/kg/b.w in experimental animals, a three dosage regimen were selected All the animals were subjected to a dosage regimen with their respective drug for a time period of 14 days. Maximal electro shock (MES) method, Pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) induced seizure were performed to evaluate e the antiepileptic activity. Reduction in the extensor phase and no of convulsions were tabulated. Dose dependent and significant (p<0.01) anti-epileptic activity in in-vivo study were obtained. Seed extract at a dose of 400mg/kg revealed better activity compared to 100 and 200mg/kg body weight and control group. The result showed a promising antiepileptic potential of the papaya seed. However further pharmacological investigation using isolated active ingredients can be carried out to confirm the efficacy and mechanism of action.

A PHARMACOGNOSTIC AND PHARMACOLOGICAL REVIEW ON CURCUMA PSEUDOMONTANA J.GRAHAM

Curcuma pseudomontana J. Graham belongs to the family Zingiberaceae, commonly known as hill turmeric. It is an endemic to the Western and Eastern Ghats, of peninsular India. C. pseudomontana rhizome is beneficial against leprosy, dysentery, and cardiac diseases. The Savara, Bagata, and Valmiki tribes of Andhra Pradesh use tuber extracts to cure jaundice and Bagata tribes use this plant for diabetes. In the present study, the preliminary phytochemical study and antioxidant activity of the rhizome extracts of C. pseudomontana were evaluated. Phytochemical screening indicated that rhizomes are rich in a variety of primary and secondary metabolites such as carbohydrates, alkaloids, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, flavonoids, phenols, glycosides, and saponins. The study highlights the biochemical and ethnopharmacological significance of an endemic C. pseudomontana. The results of pharmacognostic analysis will be helpful in developing standards for quality, purity, and sample identification. The current review summarizes the pharmacognostic parameters such as macroscopic, microscopic, physicochemical constituents, fluorescence analysis, nutritive value, behavior analysis of rhizome powder, and pharmacological activities prove it is a useful medicinal plant.

Phytochemical Analysis and Antimicrobial Activity of Iris kashmiriana and Iris ensata Extracts against Selected Microorganisms

Infectious diseases are the second leading cause for worldwide death. Treatment of infections continues to be difficult in modern time because of the severe side effects of some drugs and the growing resistance to antibacterial agents. Over the past few decades the use of antibiotics is under threat as many commonly used antibiotics have become less effective against certain illnesses due to emergence of multi drug-resistant bacteria. In the present study the effects of 3 types of solvents, chloroform, ethyl acetate and methanol were investigated to determine the presence of various phytochemical constituent, total phenolic content, total flavonoids content and in vitro antimicrobial activity from rhizomes of Iris kashmiriana (Kashmir Iris) and Iris ensata (Japanese Iris), belong to family Iridaceae. The reason for selecting in vitro method was to minimize the usage of experimental animals. The antimicrobial activity of chloroform, ethyl acetate and methanol extract of rhizomes of Iris kashmiriana and Iris ensata were evaluated on bacterial strains of Bacillus cereus, Pseudomonas auregenosa, Proteus vulgaris and Eschirichia coli and fungal strains of Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger by agar well diffusion method. The preliminary phytochemical studies and quantitative analysis of alkaloids, phenol and flavonoids were performed by well reported method. These extracts were further subjected to TLC (Thin layer chromatography analysis). The chemical contents of the Iris kashmiriana and Iris ensata were presented as total phenolic content and total flavonoids content. Phytochemical screening of the extract showed the presence of some common compounds like phenols, terpenoids, flavonoids, carbohydrate etc. The antimicrobial potential of the plant extract was evaluated against different bacterial species which shows significant inhibitory action against all the tested bacterial and fungal strain. Methanolic extract was found to be more active than chloroform and ethyl acetate extracts. It reveals that the methanol soluble components of the plant are highly active against the above mentioned microorganism.&#x0D; Keywords: Iris kashmiriana, Iris ensata, Phytochemical constituent, Total phenolic content, Total flavonoids content, In vitro antimicrobial activity

PHYTOCHEMICALS DETECTION, ANTIOXIDANT AND ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITY STUDY ON BERRIES OF SOLANUM TORVUM

Objective: This present study is planned to reveal about the pharmacognostical details, phytochemistry, antimicrobial activity, and antioxidant activity of aqueous and alcoholic extract of the berries of Solanum torvum Swartz. belonging to the family Solanaceae, which is a very good anti-inflammatory medicine in traditional system of therapies.Methods: The physicochemical parameters such as ash values, extractive values, and total fiber content, qualitative preliminary phytochemical studies, quantitative estimation for total phenolic contents and flavonoid content, anjd inorganic minerals such as sodium, calcium, and potassium were estimated. Flavonoids present in the methanolic extract were isolated and its Rf values were calculated by high-performance thin-layer chromatography method and compared with that of the standard epicatechin. The antioxidant activity was evaluated by Reducing power ability, 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl method, and hydrogen peroxide methods. The antibacterial and antifungal activities of the aqueous and methanolic extracts are evaluated by disc diffusion method comparing the zone of inhibition with that of the standards such as amikacin and Ketoconazole.Results: It contains a number of potentially pharmacologically active chemicals including the sapogenin steroid, chlorogenin, alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, and tannins. Both the extracts showed good activity, but the alcohol extract is more active toward all bacterial organisms and also toward fungi organism. Methanol extract shows good antioxidant activity. Antimicrobial activity and antioxidant activity of the berries are due to the presence of phytoconstituents present in it.Conclusion: These berries can be used for new formulation in nutraceuticals and polyherbal natural formulations for reducing the oxidative stress-related diseases and different therapies.

Pharmacognostical fingerprinting and selective bioactivity studies of Solanum glaucophyllum Desf.

Solanum glaucophyllum Desf. (Solanaceae) is traditionally used for curing several health conditions in both human and domesticated animals. There is no data available regarding pharmacognostic standardization and pharmacological activity of this less known medicinal plant. Therefore, the aim of the present work is to prepare pharmacognostic fingerprints of crude drugs obtained from the leaf and stem parts of S. glaucophyllum. Apart from this detailed phytochemical analysis, antioxidant and antimicrobial studies have also been carried out. Pharmacognostic study revealed that the leaves are amphistomatic and stomata are strictly of anisocytic type. Values of stomatal index, palisade ratio, ash content of the investigated parts are found distinct and can be used as pharmacognostic standards for evaluation of crude drugs of this medicinal plant. Phytochemical studies of the leaf and stem parts indicated that phenolics, flavonoids, tannins and alkaloids are present in quite impressible amount. Curcumin content in stem was found very high through HPLC analysis. In DPPH radical scavenging assay, the stem part showed significant antioxidant potential. Ethanol extract of stem produced maximum inhibition zone (11mm) against Pseudomonas aeruginosa at the concentration of 50 mg/ml among five test microorganisms. Some pharmacognostic features recorded in this study as diagnostic ones will help in proper identification of this ethnomedicinal plant in its fresh as well as dried form. On the other hand preliminary phytochemical, antioxidant and antimicrobial studies highlight the S. glaucophyllum as a promising candidate for bioprospecting.

Anti-arthritic Evaluation of Different Extracts of Boerhaavia diffusa Linn. in FCA Induced Arthritis In Rats

The main aim of study is to evaluate the anti-arthritic effect of different extracts of Boerhaavia diffusa in arthritic rats. Different extracts were prepared by successive solvent extraction methods by using the various polar and non polar solvents and their % yields were calculated. Arthritis was induced by FCA induced arthritis model in rats and paw volume was measured on different days. Body weights of all animals were also measured simultaneously and at the end of experiment some haematological parameters were measured. On preliminary phytochemical studies extracts showed the presence of alkaloids, fatty acids, terpenoids, flavonoids and phenolic compounds. Among all extracts, methanolic extract significantly decreased the paw volume in all treated groups. Methanolic extracts also restored the body weight significantly. The results of our study revealed that all the extracts treated group’s causes significant alterations in the hematological parameters and maximal effects were observed at 400 mg/kg. Since methanolic extract showed best activity in arthritic model and its phytochemical study showed presence of flavonoids and phenolic compounds, so it may be possible that anti-arthritic activity of root extracts may be due to presence flavonoids. &#x0D; Keywords: Arthritis, FCA induced arthritis, Boerhaavia diffusa, haematological parameters, and Body weight

Preliminary Phytochemical Studies, Evolution of antimicrobial and in vitro cytotoxic studies of selected polyherbal mixture of dietary importance

Preliminary Phytochemical Studies, Evolution of antimicrobial and in vitro cytotoxic studies of selected polyherbal mixture of dietary importance

The effects of breadfruit leaf (Artocarpus Altilis) extract on fibroblast proliferation in the tooth extraction sockets of Wistar rat

Background: A prolonged tooth extraction socket healing process can affect the well-being of the patient and increase the risk of infection. Fibroblast proliferation in the proliferation phase is an important stage in the healing process. Fibroblast formed from extracellular matrix and collagen fibers support bone formation in the socket. Breadfruit leaves, extremely common in Indonesia, contain polyphenol, flavonoid, tannin and alkaloid substances which accelerate the wound healing process because of their anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-oxidant properties. A previous study showed that 16% breadfruit leaf gel extract administered to Wistar rats produced an encouraging anti-inflammatory effect, but its capacity for increasing fibroblast proliferation remains to be fully understood. Purpose: The aim of this study was to observe the effect of applying breadfruit leaf extract on fibroblast proliferation on the healing process in tooth extraction sockets. A preliminary phytochemical study was undertaken. Methods: 24 Wistar rats were divided into four groups: two control groups and two experimental groups. 16% breadfruit leaf gel extract was applied to the experimental groups, while none was applied to the control groups. The number of fibroblasts was counted on both the third and fifth days post-extraction. Data was analyzed statistically using an independent T-test. Results: There were significant differences in the number of post-extraction fibroblasts in Wistar rat tooth sockets on day 3 (p=0.000; p &lt; α=0.05) and day 5 (p=0.000; p &lt; α=0.05). Conclusion: Breadfruit leaf gel extract application increases fibroblast proliferation during the healing process in the tooth extraction sockets of Wistar rats.

Preliminary pharmacognostic and phytochemical study on Argyreia cymosa root

Background Ethnomedicinally the plant Argyreia cymosa Convolvulaceae is certainly utilized for numerous disorders in the traditional system notably it is employed against sexually transmitted ailments skin problems diabetes rheumatism cough and quinsy The primary obstacle accomplished in the standardization of natural medication may be the deficit of appropriate identity of plant origin Consequently there may be need to set up quality control variables by using pharmacognostic and phytochemical analysis that may assure the purity safety and efficiency of therapeutic herb A cymosa Aim To evaluate pharmacognostic features including macroscopic microscopic and physicochemical parameters of the root of A cymosa Methods Micro and Macroscopic features of fresh and dried root samples were explored Physicochemical variables was done by implementing WHO urged variables preliminary phytochemical and fluorescent evaluation of root sample had been performed intended for correct recognition and standardization of root of A cymosa Results The colour shape size odor and surface features had been observed from the root and then powder root material of A cymosa Light electron microscope i e Olympus CX i trinocular Microscope images of cross section of root and powdered root revealed that the existence of cork cells Xylem fibers with tapered ends lignified xylem vessels phloem fibers medullary rays sclerides and parenchymatous cells Phytochemical testing revealed the existence of flavonoids alkaloids tannins phenols steroids acid compounds glycosides amino acids and proteins Physicochemical parameters including moisture content ash value extractive value and fluorescent behavior of root powder had been identified These variables are useful which will distinguish the powdered drug material Conclusion The present studies useful in an attempt to augment the data with regards to its standardization identity and performing additional exploration on Ayurveda approach to medicine

Efficacy of Ozoroa pulcherrima Schweinf methanolic extract against Schistosoma mansoni-induced liver injury in mice

The roots of Ozoroa pulcherrima Schweinf are used in traditional medicine to treat intestinal helminthiasis. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of Ozoroa pulcherrima roots methanolic extract (OPME) on liver injury induced by Schistosoma mansoni in mice. A preliminary phytochemical study of OPME was conducted. OPME was given daily and orally to S. mansoni-infected mice at 100, 200 or 400 mg/kg for 28 days, starting from the 36th day post-infection. Praziquantel was used as reference drug. Non-infected and infected-untreated mice served as controls. Worm burden and egg output, transaminases, total bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase and total protein; as well as malondialdehyde, catalase and reduced glutathione were evaluated. In OPME, total phenolic was 79.61 ± 0.25 mg gallic acid equivalent/g, while total flavonoid was 7.98 ± 0.04 mg rutin equivalent/g. Treatment of S. mansoni-infected mice with OPME produced significant reduction of worm burden and ova count in the faeces, liver and intestine. Significant reduction of alanine aminotransferase activity (p < 0.001) as well as significant increase of total protein content (p < 0.001) was recorded after OPME treatment at all doses. Total bilirubin level was also reduced (p < 0.01). Administration of OPME at all doses corrected the high malondialdehyde level (p < 0.001) induced by the infection. At 200 mg/kg, catalase activity and reduced glutathione concentration were significantly increased (p < 0.001). OPME at 200 mg/kg showed moderate schistosomicidal effect, but was effective as the standard drug praziquantel in restoring the liver function after S. mansoni infection.

Evaluation of anti-lipoxygenase activity of Cassia fistula linn leaves using in vitro methods

Background: Numerous plants are claimed to possess anti-inflammatory phytoconstituents in folk medicine, however, one among them is Cassia fistula linn leaves. The tree is 6-9 m high with straight trunk and smooth bark. It is pale green when young and gets rough and dark when old. The leaves are 23-30cm long and have got 4-8 pairs of oblong leaflets. Due to lack of specific scientific reports regarding its use for its anti-lipoxygenase property, this particular plant was selected for this particular study with the aim to bring scientific evidence for its therapeutic use.Methods: The anti-lipoxygenase study as carried by using 5-lipoxygenase(5-LOX) assay and 12-lipoxygenase(12-LOX) assay. In both the methods, absorbance of various concentrations of the tests and the control solutions were measured at 234nm.Results: Preliminary phytochemical study showed the presence of flavonoids, glycosides, tannins and phenolics. It was found that both the 5-LOX and 12-LOX were inhibited by the extract with a 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 6.23mg/ml obtained for the 5-LOX assay and an IC50 of 3.22mg/ml attained for the 12-LOX assay.Conclusions: The methanolic extract of the plant’s leaves showed anti-lipoxygenase activity similar to Indomethacin, thus ensuring that it could be used as an effective anti-inflammatory medicine.