Total Ash Value Research Articles

<i>Grewia asiatica</i>: An In-depth Analysis of its Phytochemical Composition, Antioxidant Potency, and Implications in Cancer Therapeutics

Background: Cancer is a global health issue, and natural medicinal plants like Grewia asiatica, also known as ‘Phalsa’, offer a promising alternative to synthetic medications due to their antipyretic, antidiabetic, analgesic, antibiotic, and antimicrobial properties. G. asiatica leaves possess a wide range of therapeutic actions like antipyretic, antidiabetic, antibiotic, and anticancer properties. Aim: This study aimed to explore the pharmacognostic characteristics, phytochemical composition, in vitro antioxidant activity, and anticancer potential of G. asiatica leaves. Methods: G. asiatica leaves, pharmacognostical, phytochemical and proximal analysis were carried out by standard qualitative and quantitative methods. The antioxidant activity was determined by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging assay and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assay whereas anticancer activity was determined using five different human cancer cell line (DU-145, MDA-MB-231, HT-29, SK-OV-3, A-549) by SRB assay. Results: The micromorphological evaluation of G. asiatica leaves revealed unique characteristics, aiding in species identification. Physicochemical parameters, including total ash and extractive values, assessed quality control. Preliminary phytochemical screening identified alkaloids, flavonoids, and glycosides. Quantitative analysis demonstrated a total phenolic content of 20.19 ± 1.34 mg gallic acid equivalent/g in EEGA, emphasizing its potential antioxidant properties. The total flavonoid content was 7.59 ± 0.71 mg rutin equivalent/g, further supporting the antioxidant potential. In vitro antioxidant assays, including DPPH and FRAP, confirmed EEGA’s strong scavenging activity and reducing power. In vitro cytotoxicity studies using five human cancer cell lines revealed minimal cytotoxic effects, with GI50 values exceeding 80 μg/mL. Conclusion: The study provides comprehensive insights into the micromorphological, phytochemical profile and antioxidant properties of G. asiatica leaves. While exhibiting promising antioxidant activity, further research is warranted to explore its anticancer potential at higher concentrations. The findings underscore the importance of G. asiatica leaves as a potential source of natural antioxidants and warrant further investigation for its role in cancer prevention and treatment.

Microscopic, Micromeritic and Phytochemical Analysis of the Leaves of Pseuderanthemum maculatum (G. Lodd.) I. M. Turner, A Plant with Potential Pharmacognistic Uses

Background: Pseuderanthemum maculatum, Pseuderanthemum maculatum (G.Lodd.) I.M.Turner [previously Pseuderanthemum carruthersii (Seem.) Guillaumin var. carruthersii] is an ornamental plant with potential pharmacognostic uses in the management of hypertension and cancers. There hadn’t been much work done on this plant previously hence making the current research work very much significant. Methods: The leaves were collected, identified, air dried, pulverized, weighed and subjected to evaluation parameters using standard procedures. GC-MS analysis was also carried out on the dichloromethane extract of the leaf. Results: The results showed that the stomatal distribution was hypostomatic with diacytic stomatal type. Stomatal index was 23.12% and the stomatal number was 60 (69.9 ± 2.65)86. Flow rate of the leaf was poor with the bulk volume of 32.30 ± 1.04, tapped volume of 21.8 ± 0.76, bulk density of 0.32 ± 0.02, tapped density of 0.46 ± 0.02, angle of repose 42.65°, Carr's index of 31.06% and Hausner's ratio of 1.45 ± 0.03. The chemomicroscopy and fluorescence analyses revealed characteristic features for the drug. The water-soluble, methanol-soluble, ethanol-soluble extractive values were 20.67 %w/w, 11.67 %w/w and 11.33 %w/w respectively. The moisture content of the leaf powder was 9.84%w/w. The total ash, acid-insoluble and water-soluble ash values were 6.72%w/w, 1.34%w/w and 16.17%w/w respectively. The GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of 11 chemical constituents with phytochemicals such as hexanoic acid, benzoic acid, undecenoic acid, heptanoic acid and Eicosane which are of useful pharmaceutical importance. Conclusion: These data obtained from the pharmacognostic studies provides information about the identity, purity and quality of Pseuderanthemum maculatum.

Pharmacognostic Study and Phytochemical Profilling of Dichloromethane Extracts of the Leaf and Stem of Vernonia conferta Benth and Vernonia colorata Drake Asteraceae

Aims: The study determines various taxonomic, pharmacognostic and phytochemical standards helpful to ensure the identity, purity, safety and efficacy of Vernonia colorata and Vernonia conferta. Study Design: To study these two species of Vernonia for their epidermal cell shapes, stomatal types and distribution, trichome types, chemomicroscopic and fluorescence characters, flow properties, ash values, extractive solvents and phytoconstituents of dichlormethane fractions using GC-MS. Place and Duration: This study was conducted at the Department of Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Uyo, Uyo from June 2023 to December 2023. Methodology: The pharmacognostic characterization was determined following the guidelines given by the World Health Organization (WHO). Parameters determined included microscopy, powder microscopy, chemomicroscopy, micromeritic properties, ash values, extractive values, fluorescence analysis while phytochemical analysis was done using Gas Chromatography coupled to Mass Spectrometer. Results: Epidermal cell shapes were both irregular with undulate and sinuous anticlinal wall pattern for both V. colorata and C. conferta respectively. Stomatal distribution was hypostomatic with paracytic stomata on the abaxial surface for C. conferta while amphistomatic with anomocytic stomata in V. colorata. Stomatal index was highest in V. conferta with 27.31% and least in V. colorata 21.52%. Unicellular trichomes were observed in V. colorata and V. conferta epidermal surfaces. The chemomicroscopic study revealed the presence of lignin, starch, cellulose, oils, calcium oxalate crystals, mucilage and protein for both leaf and stem respectively. The fluorescence characteristics showed the presence of different colours supporting the presence of various phytoconstituents for both leaf and stem. The quantitative epidermal studies, chemomicroscopic and fluorescence characteristics revealed characteristic features for the drug. The flow properties for both leaf and stem were poor. The total ash values for both leaf and stem ranges between (2.40 – 9.30 and 10.60 – 11.06), acid-insoluble ash values were low, moisture contents were between 8 - 14%w/w, water and methanol extracted more constituents. In total, 12 chemical constituents each were recorded for the leaves of V. colorata and V. conferta, respectively, while 10 and 12 were also recorded for the dichloromethane stem extracts of V. colorata and V. conferta, respectively. Conclusion: This study is useful in pharmacognostic standardization of Vernonia colorata and Vernonia conferta.

Assessing the Effect of Shodhana (Purification) Process by Triphala Decoction on Shilajit Using High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography

Standardization of Shodhit Shilajit is a major challenge. Objective: Objective of the present study was to assessing the effect of Shodhana purification process on Shilajit as well as assessing the difference in fingerprint of raw Shilajit and Shodhit Shilajit by HPTLC and physicochemical tests. Methods: The standardization parameters such as appearance, identification of active marker compound Gallic acid and Fingerprint comparison by HPTLC, Physicochemical test parameters like loss on drying, pH value, ash value, water soluble extractive, ethanol soluble extractive and assay of humic acid and fulvic acid were evaluated during the study. Chromatographic separation was achieved by using Toluene: Ethyl acetate: Formic acid (5.0:4.0:1.0 v/v/v) as mobile phase followed by comparing the Rf values. Results: The presence of active marker compound gallic acid in Shodhit Shilajit was confirmed by comparing the Rf value with standard. HPTLC fingerprint also confirmed that constituents from raw Shilajit transferring to the Shodhit Shilajit after the process of Shodhana. Total Ash value and Acid insoluble ash value reduced from 52.95% to 21.67% and 2.35% to 0.39% respectively while Water soluble extractive value increased from 59.33% to 72.13% after Shodhana process. There is also an increase in percentages of humic acid and fulvic acid from 7.10% to 8.23% and 36.91% to 50.12 % in Shodhit Shilajit. Conclusion: All these results showed the significance and effectiveness of Shodhana process in reducing the impurities and ultimately enhancing the therapeutic activity of Shodhit Shilajit. These evaluation parameters can be used for the standardization of Shodhit Shilajit and also can be routinely employed for analysis in Quality Control Lab.

Botanical and pharmacognostic investigation of Strobilanthes kalimantanensis.

Under a hidden waterfall in the interior of the tropical rainforest of East Kalimantan, a new medicinal plant that produces essential oil (EO) was found with the name Strobilanthes kalimantanensis. The aim was to investigate the botanical and evaluate the pharmacognostic characteristics of S. kalimantanensis leaves from East Kalimantan, Indonesia. Pharmacognostic studies can provide recommendations for establishing quality control standards or guidelines for cultivating, harvesting, and processing S. kalimantanensi s to ensure the consistent and reliable quality of medicinal products. Characteristic methods of S. kalimantanensis leaves include botanical macroscopic, fluorescence, physicochemical, and phytochemical evaluation. The plant characteristics of this plant are similar to S. kunthia and S. reptans but can be differentiated in the leaves and flowers. Fluorescence assay with sodium hydroxide 5% shows unique characteristics of secondary metabolites based on their ability to form dark green with black precipitate in Ultraviolet 365 nm. The physicochemical characteristics showed yield, water content, water-soluble, ethanol soluble, total ash value, and acid-insoluble ash. Phytochemicals showed the presence of alkaloids, polyphenols, terpenoids, and EO containing 23% trans-anethole. This evaluation report details the chemical composition, identity, and safety of S. kalimantanensis leaves.

Exploring the Pharmacognostic Characteristics, Antioxidant Potential, and Anticholinesterase Activity of Piliostigma thonningii (Schum.) Milne-Redh.: Implications for Neuroprotection and Cognitive Health

Aim: The aim of this research is to investigate the pharmacognostic characteristics, antioxidant potential, and anticholinesterase activity of Piliostigma thonningii (Schum.) Milne-Redh. This study seeks to evaluate its potential applications for neuroprotection and cognitive health enhancement. Place and Duration of Study: This study was carried out in Nigeria by the Department of Medicinal Plant Research and Traditional Medicine, National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development, Idu – Abuja, Nigeria between January 2024 and March 2024. Methodology: Physicochemical studies, including total Ash value and moisture content, were assessed using the powdered leaf sample. Leaf microscopy was conducted to examine the epidermal layer of the leaves. Anti-oxidant assays (Total phenol, total flavonoid and 2,2- diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl [DPPH] free radical scavenging activity), as well as acetylcholinesterase (AchE) inhibition assay was carried out on the methanolic leaf extract of the plant. Results: The powdered leaves of P. thonningii contained a total ash of 5.00% ± 0.00 and 7.74% ± 0.01 moisture. The alcohol- and water-soluble extractive values were 8.51% ± 0.24 and 9.77% ± 0.31, respectively. Leaf microscopic analysis showed the presence of polygonal cell walls, unicellular multiseriate trichomes, trichome base, xylem vessels, rosette-type calcium oxalate crystals, parenchyma, and collenchyma cells. The methanolic leaf extract exhibited antioxidant capacity, inhibiting DPPH in a dose-dependent manner, with total phenolics and flavonoids of 53.74(GAE) ± 1.59 and 42.51mg QE/g ± 0.38, respectively. The methanolic extract of P. thonningii in this study showed an AchE inhibition of between 5.89 % at 10 mg/ml to 16.56 % at 20 mg/ml Conclusion: The study reveals significant pharmacognostic characteristics, robust antioxidant potential, and notable anticholinesterase activity of P. thonniingii, suggesting its promising role in neuroprotection. These findings highlight its potential application in enhancing cognitive health and preventing neurodegenerative diseases.

Phytochemical investigation and characterisation of methanolic extract of Glycine max seeds using LCMS/MS and in silico studies for wound healing activity.

Soybean is scientifically known as Glycine max. It belongs to the Fabaceae family. It consists of a lot of bioactive phytochemicals like saponin, phenolic acid, flavonoid, sphingolipids and phytosterols. It also owns excellent immune-active effects in the physiological system. Soy and its phytochemicals have been found to have pharmacological properties that include anticancer, antioxidant, anti-hypercholesterolaemic, anti-diabetic, oestrogenic, anti-hyperlipidaemic, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, anti-hypertensive, anti-mutagenic, immunomodulatory, anti-osteoporotic, antiviral, hepatoprotective, antimicrobial, goitrogenic anti-skin ageing, wound healing, neuroprotective and anti-photoageing activities. Present study has been designed to set standard pharmacognostical extraction method, complexation of compounds, qualitative evaluation through phytochemical screening, identification by TLC, physicochemical properties, solubility profile, total phenolic, flavonoid content as well as analytical evaluation or characterisation like UV and FT-IR of methanolic extract of G. max. The final observations like physicochemical properties such as total ash value, LOD and pH were recorded. Phytochemical screenings show the presence of flavonoid, alkaloid, saponin, carbohydrate, tannins, protein, gums and mucilage, fixed oils and fats. The results were found significant. Further in silico studies proved creatinine and euparin to be potent wound healing agents.

Development and Evaluation of Topical Herbal Formulation for Infectious Eczema

The study Development and Evaluation of Topical Herbal Formulation for Infectious Eczema presents a comprehensive investigation into the preparation and assessment of a herbal gel aimed at addressing infectious eczema. The research methodology involved meticulous plant collection, extraction, and subsequent physicochemical and phytochemical analyses. Murraya koenigli leaves were collected, identified, dried, and ground into a fine powder before undergoing successive extraction with solvents of increasing polarity. The resulting extracts were concentrated and stored for future use. Physicochemical constants of the powdered drug were determined, including moisture content, total ash value, and extractive values, providing insights into the composition and quality of the herbal material. Preliminary phytochemical evaluations were conducted to identify the presence of specific phytoconstituents such as alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, phenols, and triterpenoids. These evaluations involved various qualitative tests, each confirming the presence of specific compounds indicative of potential bioactivity. Subsequently, a herbal gel was formulated using the plant extract and Carbopol-934 as a gelling agent, along with other excipients. The gel formulations were evaluated for pH, spreadability, extrudability, and stability over time. Results indicated suitable pH values, spreadability, and extrudability across different formulations, suggesting their potential for dermatological applications. Stability studies demonstrated consistent physical appearance, rheological properties, spreadability, pH, and drug levels over a one-month period, affirming the formulations' stability and therapeutic potential. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the development of effective herbal formulations for managing infectious eczema, contributing to the advancement of natural-based therapies in dermatology and offering promising avenues for further research and clinical application

Studies on Various Taxonomic, Pharmacognostic and Phytochemical Properties of Sanchezia speciosa Leonard Acanthaceae

Sanchezia speciosa Leonard, Acanthaceae is used as ornamental plant. It used in folklore medicine in the management of pain, anti-microbial and insecticide. An investigation was carried out to evaluate the various taxonomic, pharmacognostic and phytochemical standards to ensure the identity, purity, safety and efficacy of the medicinal plant, S. speciosa. Various observations were recorded which included microscopy, micromeritics, fluorescence, chemomicroscopy, soluble extractive values, moisture contents and phytochemical analysis. The results indicated that the epidermal shapes were both polygonal on the adaxial and abaxial surfaces. Stomatal distribution was amphistomatic with anisocytic and diacytic stomata on the adaxial and abaxial surface, respectively. Stomatal index was 21.47% on the adaxial surface and 15.43% on the abaxial surface. Micromeritics results for the leaf powder were bulk volume of 25.33± 0.408, tapped volume of 19.00± 0.00, bulk density of 0.40± 0.006, tapped density of 0.53± 0.021, Hausner’s ratio of 1.34± 0.037, Carr’s index of 25.00± 2.550 and angle of repose of 43.07°. The micromeritics indicated a passable flow. The chemo microscopy indicated presence of lignin, mucilage and starch. Fluorescence properties showed different colours under different ultraviolet lights. The water-soluble, methanol-soluble, ethanol-soluble extractive values were 14.7% w/w, 4.3% w/w and 5.0% w/w, respectively. Moisture content was 8.5% w/w. Total ash, acid-insoluble and water-soluble ash values were 20.0 % w/w, 2.0% w/w and 4.2% w/w, respectively. GC-MS of methanol extract revealed the total of 39 phytochemicals with over 5 prominent peaks having higher area% which include hexadecanoic acid methyl ester (2.64%), 9,12,15-octadecatrienoic acid methyl ester (4.77%), phytol (9.98%), 9,12,15 octadecatrienoic acid (12.97%), Stigmasterol (2.00%) and Squalene (28.16%). Other compounds are glycerin (5.83%), n-hexadecanoic acid (2.85%) and 9 octadecenamide (2.18%). Many of them possess good pharmacological properties. The data generated from the present study would help to authenticate S. speciosa and also affirm its folklore use in traditional medicine which has potential for further development into drug product.

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.

Evaluation of the nutritional properties and the antioxidant activity of rice bean (<i>Vigna umbellata</i>) seeds collected in Sơn La province

Vigna umbellata is an underutilized species in Vietnam, and more information about its nutritional values needs to be provided. This study investigated the nutritional composition and antioxidant activity of the seeds of 10 rice bean varieties collected from different districts of Son La province. Moisture content, ash and nutritional composition, including total protein, lipid, and carbohydrate were estimated. The 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging assay, total phenolic content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC) were carried out to assess the antioxidant activity. The results showed as follows: moisture content ranged from 0.44% to 1.23%, total ash values were obtained in the range between 38.46 and 45.72 mg/g DW, total protein content spread from 106.65 to 156.77 mg/g; total lipid varied from 7.37 to 11.90 mg/g, and total carbohydrate dominated the nutritional profile with 786.10 to 834.73 mg/g. Remarkably, there were significant differences (p < 0.05 using ANOVA) among the rice bean species from various districts of Son La province regarding moisture and protein content. Still, similar values were observed for other parameters (p > 0.05). The IC50 of the DPPH assay ranged from 259.06 µg/mL to 479.99 µg/mL, while the TPC varied from 2.85 to 4.98 mg GAE/g, and TFC values were in the range between 6.46 and 13.73 mg QE/g DW. Both TPC and TFC were significantly negatively correlated to antioxidant activity. This study is the first report on the nutritional compositions and antioxidant activity in the seeds of 10 rice bean varieties collected in Son La province. The findings in this study contribute to valorizing the V. umbellata species, which might be a promising plant as a low-priced staple food for ethnic people in mountainous regions.

Estimation of in vivo body composition of Iberian pigs using bioelectric impedance and ultrasonography techniques

Iberian pigs are renowned for their high-quality products and distinctive characteristics, including high fat accumulation, low protein deposition rate, and a long productive cycle. The study aimed to assess in vivo body composition of purebred Iberian pigs using bioimpedance analysis (BIA) and ultrasonography. Accurate estimation of body composition in live animals is crucial for adopting decisions at the farm level. The experiment involved three groups of pure male Iberian pigs differing in body weight (BW; 60, 80 and 100 kg) with the same nutritional management. Body measurements, BIA and back fat and loin thickness (measured by ultrasonography) were obtained before slaughter. After slaughter pig carcasses were chemically analysed. A strong correlation between BIA measurements, specifically resistance (Rs) values, and body chemical parameters (total protein, lipids, ash, and water contents; p < 0.001 for all) was found. Reactance values (Xc), however, did not exhibit significant correlations. Regression analyses were conducted to predict carcass composition based on BIA measurements, BW, ultrasonography and linear corporal measurements. The prediction models achieved high R2 values for lipids, protein, total ash, water, and lean tissue (0.957, 0.968, 0.936, 0.961 and 0.976, respectively, p < 0.001 for all), indicating strong predictive power. These findings demonstrate the potential of non-invasive techniques such as BIA for estimating body chemical composition and quality of pig carcasses. However, it is important to acknowledge that the prediction models developed may not be applicable to other pig populations, as they were based on a specific sample of pigs.

Micromorphology, physicochemical parameters, and phytochemical screening of Chloranthus flavus D.T. Liu &amp; G. Chen (syn. C. nervosus Collett &amp; Hemsl.) from Vietnam

Abstract. Chen TV, Lam DNX, Khai HD, Duc DPN, Nga NT, Hien NTT, Quynh TTT. 2024. Micromorphology, physicochemical parameters, and phytochemical screening of Chloranthus flavus D.T. Liu &amp; G. Chen (syn. C. nervosus Collett &amp; Hemsl.) from Vietnam. Biodiversitas 25: 846-858. Chloranthus flavus D.T. Liu &amp; G. Chen (syn. C. nervosus Collett &amp; Hemsl.) is a subshrub belonging to the family Chloranthaceae. Information on the anatomical structure and the powder features of C. flavus has not been noted. This study aimed to develop a monograph on the microscopic characteristics and physicochemical parameters of C. flavus, as well as a preliminary assessment of the phytochemical composition of this species. Anatomical characterizations of roots, stems, and leaves were performed using the iodine green-carmine staining method and then an optical microscope was used to observe the histology of these parts, similar to observing powder characteristics. Secondary metabolites were detected by chromogenic or precipitation reagents. Anatomically, the structural characteristics of the roots, stems, and leaves are similar to those of the Chloranthus species. Particularly, the root structure is characterized by six alternating xylem bundles, with six phloem bundles forming a ring. Polygonal to irregularly shaped cells of the upper epidermis and irregularly shaped ordinary cells, laterocytic and anomocytic stomata types, stomatal clusters, and the stomatal index (15.75±1.52%) of the lower epidermis were observed in leaves. Both powders found fragments of epidermal and parenchymatous cells, spiral xylem vessels, and scalariform xylem vessels. However, the root powder only observed solid-shaped sclereid cells, starch granules, starch clusters, and calcium oxalate crystals. The powders' moisture content, total ash, and acid-insoluble ash values all meet acceptable standards according to regulations on raw material purity. The whole C. flavus plant contains carotenoids, fatty acids, essential oils, flavonoids, tannins, coumarins, alkaloids, triterpenoids, amino acids, and carbohydrates. The current findings highlight the key characteristics for identifying C. flavus.

PHYSICOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF SIDDHA POLY-HERBAL FORMULATION NELLIMULLI ILAGAM

Introduction: The Siddha system is an ancient, holistic system. The medicine in this system is prepared from raw materials of herbs, metals, minerals and animal products. In recent years, considerable research has focused on validation and standardisation aspects. Nellimulli ilagam is a polyherbal Siddha formulation used to manage Veluppu noi. Aim: To study the physicochemical analysis of Nellimulli ilagam. Methods: Standardization parameters such as organoleptic characteristics, physicochemical analysis, test for aflatoxins, pesticide residues, specific pathogens, and heavy metal analysis were carried out as per PLIM guidelines. Results: The results obtained from the trial drug Nellimulli ilagam study show that it has a dark, brownish-coloured semi-solid texture with a strong characteristic odour and is non-free-flowing. Physicochemical analysis reveals that pH was 7.2, total ash value was 10±0.4 and acid insoluble ash value was 0.02±0.004. Loss on drying at 105 0C is 8.4±0.9. The test for aflatoxins and pesticide residues showed negative results. Test for microbial contamination and specific pathogen shows absent. Test for heavy metals shows below the limit of quantification (BLQ).

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, &amp; 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.

A pharmaceutical standardization of Shunthi (Zingiber officinale): A Research Article

Introduction: Shunthi (Zingiber officinale) is a dried form of Adaraka. Adaraka means Aadryati Jihva i.e., which keeps the Jihva moistened by increasing salivation in mouth whereas Shunthi dries up the water content of Kapha and checks its flow. Its rich history of use for centuries, is owing to its composite therapeutic properties. Aims and Objectives: The present study is aimed to standardization of Shunthi. Materials and Methods: Preparation of Shunthi Churna from its Kanda (Rhizome). This article focuses on the pharmaceutical preparation and standardization of Shunthi to ensure consistent quality and potency in herbal formulations. Standardization involves the quantification of key bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, carbohydrates, steroids, tannins and starch, which contribute to its therapeutic effects. For the identification, purity and strength these must be fulfilled - analytical parameters like loss on drying at 110°C, total ash value, acid insoluble ash, alcohol soluble extractive, water soluble extractive and moisture content in drug. Conclusion: Shunthi Churna is used for Grahani, Pandu, Shwasa Roga, Arsha, Amvata, Rajyakshma, Shula, Anaha etc. The rare side effects are increased bleeding tendency, rash, itching sensation and swelling of tongue, lips and throat. Drug interaction: Shunthi can interact with anti-inflammatory medications like Ibuprofen, Aspirin etc. and other drugs that affect bleeding tendency.[1] Contraindication: In Summer and autumn seasons, contraindications with Pittaja Vyadhi.[2] Hence the present work may be used for the quality assessment and standardization of Shunthi (Zingiber officinale).

Standardization of Kandankathiriyaadhy Kyazham: A Classical Siddha Drug

Kandankathiriyaadhy Kyazham is one of the polyherbal formulation mentioned in siddha system of medicine. The main objective of the study was to evaluate the quality of formulation Kandankathiriyaadhy Kyazham by conducting Physicochemical, Phytochemical evaluation through advanced analytical techniques. The organoleptic nature of the drug provides the purity and quality of the formulation. The results obtained from physicochemical evaluation shows that the total ash value of Kandankathiriyaadhy Kyazham was “2.8±0.3%”, in which the acid insoluble ash was “0.041±0.008%”, loss on drying at 105ºC of the formulation Kandankathiriyaadhy Kyazham was noted to be “7.4±0.88” in which water soluble extract value and alcohol soluble extract value was “20.2±1.53 and 8.333=1.15% “respectively. High performance Thin Layer Chromatography analysis of reveals the appearance Kandankathiriyaadhy Kyazham of ten prominent peaks corresponds to presence of ten versatile phyto components present with in it.Rf value of the peaks ranges from “0.13 to 0.91”. Phyto chemical analysis of Kandankathiriyaadhy Kyazham reveals the emergence of phytocomponents like Alkaloids, Flavonoids, Steroids, Triterpenoids, Coumarin, Phenol, Tannin, Protein, Saponins, Sugar, Betacyanin. In conclusion, the polyherbal formulation of Kandankathiriyaadhy Kyazham possess significant phytocomponents and have beneficial effects towards treating various disorders.

Pharmacognosy and Analytical Profile of Bhunimbadi Churna: A Polyherbal Formulation

ABSTRACT Background: Charak Samhita, an ancient Ayurvedic text, offers a vast repository of effective polyherbal formulations for treating various diseases. Ensuring the standardization and authentication of these compound formulations is crucial for quality control and enhancing their therapeutic efficacy. Establishing reliable data to set standard parameters is essential for verifying the genuineness of individual formulations and drugs as a whole. Aims and Objectives: The primary aim of this study is to evaluate and assess Bhunimbadi Churna, a classical formulation mentioned in the Grahanidosha Chikitsa Adhyaya of Charak Samhita, known for its multiple therapeutic indications. The objectives include conducting a comprehensive pharmacognostical and pharmacological assessment of the formulation to establish standard parameters for quality control. Materials and Methods: The study involved a detailed examination of Bhunimbadi Churna using standard scientific protocols. The assessment included organoleptic characteristics, physico chemical parameters, physical characteristics of the powder (Churna), preliminary phytochemical analysis, and high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) analysis. Results: On performing the experiments for three consecutive readings, loss on drying was found to be 7.66 ± 0.21, pH was 5.53 ± 0.19, total ash value of powder was found to be 6.64 ± 0.20 w/w, and acid insoluble ash was found to be 0.52 ± 0.11 w/w. These parameters provide a reliable framework for assessing the quality and authenticity of the formulation. Conclusion: The findings of this study offer valuable tools for regulatory authorities, scientific organizations, and manufacturers to develop standardized formulations of Bhunimbadi Churna. The reproducible parameters established in this study can assist in ensuring the quality and efficacy of this classical Ayurvedic formulation.

Pharmacognostic and Phytochemical Characteristics of the Colchicum luteum Baker (Suranjan) growing wild in Kashmir Valley, India

Colchicum luteum (Liliaceae) belongs to genus Colchicum. The Liliaceae family consists of 280 genera and 4000 species, with diverse geographical locations. In the Kashmir valley, they are widely distributed. Colchicum luteum is a perennial plant with corms and starchy rhizomes. This drug holds a prime position in the Unani system of medicine due to presence of alkaloid colchicine, which is found to be effective in arthritis, gout, rheumatism, and used as a carminative, laxative, and aphrodisiac. Its hydro-alcoholic extract was screened for the presence of several phytoconstituents using preliminary phytochemical methods. The microscopy of the Colchicum luteum corm revealed the presence of Fragment of Vessels with Spiral and Annular Thickening, Parenchyma and Part of a Spirally Thickened Vessel, Calcium-Oxalate Crystal, Starch-Granule and Single-Fibre. Proximate analysis revealed that Colchicum luteum corm dry plant powder has a 2.6% Total Ash Value, 1.0% Acid Insoluble Ash Value, and 1.8% Water Soluble Ash Value. 10.6 percent was determined to be the loss on drying. Post treatment with various chemical agents, fluorescence examination of the powdered plant material was performed under UV light at 254 nm and visible light. The current study showed the microscopical characters, the preliminary phytochemical screening and the proximate analysis of the Colchicum luteum corm. Information collected from such studies can be used as benchmark in the quality control of this plant as herbal medicine for treatment of various diseases.

Pharmacognostical standardization and antibacterial activity of the dried fruit of Carissa edulis vahl

Carissa edulis Vahl (C. edulis) is a plant from the Apocynaceae family that originated in South Africa and is widely distributed in India, Saudi Arabia etc. C. edulis has been used to cure asthma, toothaches, fevers and wound healing. The objective of the study was to standardise and screen the antibacterial activity of dried fruits of C. edulis. Fluorescence analysis and physicochemical analysis were determined for the identification of adulterants and to verify the characteristics of the plant products. Total ash values, extractive index and antibacterial activity have been carried out by the well diffusion method. The antibacterial activity showed an effective zone of inhibition by the ethanol extract and the inhibition was 100.1, 110.1, 200.3 and 120.1 mm for the tested bacteria. The above studied pharmacognostic evaluation and antibacterial activity may be useful to analyse the quality, purity, safety and quality assurance of plants.