Total Ash Value Research Articles

Molecular docking of phenolic compounds and screening of antioxidant and antidiabetic potential of Moringa oleifera ethanolic leaves extract from Qassim region, Saudi Arabia

IntroductionOxidative stress is crucial in diabetic pathophysiology, hence the prerequisite of ingesting naturally derived antioxidants as a remedial target. This study investigates the naturally occurring antioxidant and antidiabetic potential of Moringa oleifera ethanolic leaves extract. MethodsMoringa oleifera leaves were macerated (MOLE) by using 70% ethanol. Physiochemical and phytochemical examinations of MOLE was assayed using standard methods. The antioxidant activity was analyzed by DPPH (1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazil) radical scavenging assay. In vitro antidiabetic was analyzed by pancreatic α-amylase enzyme inhibitory assay. The molecular docking was performed using AutoDock Vina v1.1.2 in PyRx 30.8. ResultsEthanolic extraction of MOLE by maceration technique, 14 % yield. Loss on drying, foreign organic matters and total ash value of OLE showed 0.27 w/w, 0.8 % and 19 %, respectively. Phytochemical test on MOLE confirmed starch, carbohydrate, flavonoid, gum, glycoside, saponin, tannin, and phenol presences. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents of MOLE are 260 mg GAE/g and 755 mg RUE/g of extract. MOLE (IC 50 55.6 ± 0.18 µg/mL) showed functional DPPH scavenging assay comparable to ascorbic acid (IC 50 46.71 ± 0.24 µg/mL). In the alpha-amylase inhibitory activity, Acarbose showed an IC 50 value of 19.45 ± 0.26 µg/mL, while MOLE portrayed an IC 50 value of 27.54 ± 0.07 µg/mL. Docking studies revealed that most phenolic compounds found within MOLE have minimum docking scores and high binding affinity against Human pancreatic alpha-amylase. ConclusionsThe invitro and docking results suggest that MOLE has been a viable natural bioactive source and might be a great potential source for future antidiabetic medicine.

Evaluation of impact of Siddha Suthi (purification) processes on nut of Serankottai (Semecarpus anacardium L.)

Introduction: Serankottai (Semecarpus anacardium L.) is a Schedule E (1) drug and is considered for treating all kinds of Vatha diseases, venereal disease, skin disease and cancerous conditions. Suthi murai denotes the purification process before any drug is employed in medicine. This study is aimed at evaluating the impact of Siddha purification processes on macro-microscopical and physico-chemical characteristics of Serankottai so that a justification for such classical processes can be derived. Materials and Method: The raw (S1) and purified Serankottai (S2 to S6) samples were analyzed for their macroscopic, microscopic and powder microscopic analysis followed by the physicochemical parameters like loss on drying (LOD), total ash (TA), water soluble ash (WSA), acid insoluble ash (AIA), water soluble extractive (WSE), alcohol soluble extractive (ASE) and pH values. Results: Prismatic crystals, oil globules, sclereids, resin, fiber were observed in the microscopical studies of raw sample and these are found in the purified samples except S2 which has revealed charred cell structure. Physical nature of Serankottai has been maintained in all the purification methods except for S2. The LOD was 5.53%, 2.90%, 6.47%, 5.03%, 4.6%, 5.05% in sampleS1, S2, S3, S4, S5 and S6 respectively. The TA values were 3.44%, 18.90%, 2.59%, 2.54% 2.7% and 3.65% in sample S1, S2, S3, S4, S5 and S6 respectively. Significant differences in physico-chemical parameters were observed in different purification methods. Conclusion: The present study revealed that the Siddha purification processes have impact on physicochemical characters of Semecarpus anacardium. The need of the purification, as mentioned in Siddha texts is hereby justified.

Physicochemical Characterization, Phytochemical and HPTLC Fingerprinting Studies on Fruit of Couroupita Guianensis

Abstract Traditional knowledge and literature studies report that each part of a plant has tremendous medicinal values. Validation of these medicinal plants scientifically is an important criterion for the development of plant-based drugs. Couroupita guianensis (Family: Lecythidaceae) is a plant with immense medicinal properties. To authenticate its biological value, the present investigation aims to standardize the fruit of C. guianensis based on physicochemical characterization, phytochemical analysis both qualitatively and quantitatively, and high-performance thin-layer liquid chromatography (HPTLC) fingerprinting studies. Fruit pulp of C. guianensis was obtained, processed and extracted with solvents such as petroleum ether, chloroform, ethanol and hydroalcohol. Moisture content, total ash, water-soluble ash and acid-insoluble ash values were calculated. Preliminary phytochemical analysis revealed the existence of several secondary metabolites in the extracts. In addition, interpreting peaks obtained from HPTLC analysis revealed the presence of potential bioactive phytoconstituents in all the extracts. The quantitative determination proclaimed that fruit pulp was found to be rich in phenolics and flavonoids followed by tannin and saponin. Further, primary metabolites were quantified and they were found to be abundant in the fruit pulp. Henceforth, the outcome of these results provides information for assessing the quality of the sample that could help in ensuring its therapeutic efficacy. Keywords: Couroupita guianensis, HPTLC, Physicochemical characterization, Phytochemical, Fingerprinting

​Nutritional Evaluation of Predominant Tree Fodders and Shrubs of Southern Kerala as a Quality Livestock Feed

Background: India ranks first in global livestock production and it is an important subsidiary enterprise that support more than 75 per cent of the rural community. But fodder production is not well practiced in our country and animals generally consume naturally grown grasses and shrubs which are of low quality in terms of protein and available energy. Hence, there is an urgent need to look for new fodder resources that are sustainable in nature and cover our fodder deficit. Keeping the above in view, the present study has been proposed to evaluate the predominant tree fodders and shrubs of Southern Kerala as a quality livestock feed. Methods: The study was conducted in College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram during January-September, 2020 to assess the nutritional value of predominant tree fodders and shrubs in Southern Kerala as a quality feed for cattle. Ten different fodder trees and shrubs that locally fed to the cattle viz., Agathi (Sesbania grandiflora), erythrina (Erythrina indica), Drumstick (Moringa oleifera), Coconut (Cocos nucifera), Glyricidia (Glyricidia maculate), Matti (Terminalia elliptica), Subabul (Leucaena leucocephala), Cassava (Manihot esculenta), Banana (Musa acuminate) and Mango (Mangifera indica) were selected and analysed for proximate composition, crude fiber and mineral status. Result: The result revealed that mean values for dry matter, crude protein, crude fiber, ether extract and total ash in tree fodders were 37.07±4.02, 18.52±1.72, 18.56±2.07, 4.68±0.51, 8.72±0.66, respectively. The study also proved that Sesbania grandiflora (Agathi) is nutritionally superior to other tree fodders with high crude protein (25.24%) and lower crude fiber (8.43%) content. The Neutral Detergent Fiber content of fodder tree leaves varied from 17.34- 65.32 per cent and that of Acid Detergent Fiber from 11.10-48.69 per cent. Phosphorus and potassium status of top feeds comes under the range of 0.26-0.93 per cent and 1.0-2.7 per cent respectively. However the highest amount of Calcium as well as magnesium was found in Moringa oleifera (2.75 and 0.60 per cent respectively).

Comparative analysis of two Himalayan Aconitum species for their phytopharmaceutical properties

IntroductionBhutanese Sowa Rigpa Medicine (BSM) uses two species of Aconitum in 25 important multi-ingredient formulations. The formulations are used for treating chronic disoders, parasitic and microbial infections, inflammatory diseases, bilious fever, or high fever related to bile disorders, including colds and flu. Some Aconitum species are toxic, and there is a need for stringent quality control measures. Materials and methodsAconitum orochryseum Stapf and Aconitum laciniatum (Bruehl) Stapf, were collected from Lingzhi, which is geographically located under Thimphu district, Bhutan, between the altitudes of 4000–4900 meters above sea level (masl), between July and September. Their comparative pharmacognostic properties were evaluated by: 1) using physicochemical parameters, such as foreign matter and moisture contents, total ash, acid-insoluble ash and alcohol-soluble extracts values and loss on drying of individual crude drugs; 2) developing a comparative High-Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) fingerprint, at Menjong Sorig Pharmaceuticals Corporation Limited (MSCPL), - Bhutan and 3) conducting a literature review to identify the nature and toxicity of alkaloids present in two Aconitum species. ResultsTwo Aconitum species possess distinct macros- and micros-copic characteristic features (including colour, taste, smell, appearance, and shape). The physicochemical analysis and the HPTLC fingerprinting of their methanol extracts yielded adequate data to differentiate and validate these two species’ identities, before adding them to 25 essential traditional medicine drugs (ETMDs) or polyherbal formulations in BSM. A literature review revealed that the two Aconitum species contained two distinct types of alkaloids. ConclusionsTwo Aconitum species could be differentiated based on their botanical features, macros- and micros-copic characteristics, physicochemical values and HPTLC fingerprint profiles. These pharmacognostic properties can be used as quality control parameters to confirm the two species' identity, thereby ensuring the quality and safety of BSM.

Comparison of Nutrition Values of Discarded Fish By Bottom Trawl Fishing in the Mersin Bay

In the present study, proximate composition and meat yield of discarded fish Tub gurnard (Chelidonichthys lucerna Linnaeus, 1758), brown comber(Serranus hepatus Linnaeus, 1758) and Scaldfish (Arnoglosus laterna Walbaum, 1792) caught in Mersin Bay (Northeastern Mediterranean) by bottom trawlers were investigated. The highest protein values and the lowest total lipid and ash values were recorded during spring in three species (P<0.05). Meat yield was found to be different significantly among spring and autumn samples (P<0.05). Mean meat yield of tub gurnard, brown comber and scaldfish were 50.94%, 53.85% and 64.56%, respectively. Results of study show that although these species are considered to be discarded, they can be considered as food or additive for various living groups due to their high nutritional quality, thus they can contribute significantly to the food requirement and economy of the country. Thus, both the ecological balance in the marine environment will be protected and economic losses will be prevented.

Concept of Kshara Nirmana Out of Kanji with Reference to Rasayansara- A Pharmaceutico-Analytical Study

Kanji (sour rice gruel) is an acidic fermented preparation mentioned in many of the Ayurveda classics for various purpose like therapeutic use, pharmaceutical processes etc. A special method of kanji preparation is mentioned in Rasaratnasamuchchaya commentary by Acharya Dattatreya Anant Kulkarni and similar preparation is also mentioned in Rasayansara book recommended for the Parada samskara (mercurial processes) with some difference in ingredients. Kshara (alkaline preparation/ alkali) is an important preparation mentioned in classics. In Rasayansara text, Acharya Shyamsundar Vaishyaji has described a unique method of Kshara nirmana out of the leftover material of the Kanji. This kind of innovative methods should be adopted to recycle the leftover waste matters. It will help in regenerate the new pharmaceutical product. Here an attempt has been done by preparing the kanji and the kshara out of its residue material as mentioned in Rasayansara. First Kanji was prepared as per the reference of Rasayansara book and the leftover after filtration was dried. The kshara was prepared out of this dried leftover. Organoleptic and physicochemical analysis of the prepared kshara was done. The average yield of obtained kshara was 4.88%. The moisture content of the final product found very less while total ash value found on higher side. The pH value suggests its alkaline nature. It shows good solubility in various solvents and good water-soluble extractive value. Exploration of such innovative procedures where waste stuff is been recycled should be increased in present time.

Pharmacognostical, Phytochemical and Fluorescence analysis of the plant Bougainvillea spectabilis (Willd.)

Objective: The aim of the study is to investigate the Phytochemical, Pharmacognostical, Fluorescence analysis and heavy metal testing of the plant Bougainvillea spectabilis (WILLD.). Methods: The plant powder was extracted with different solvents such as petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate, ethanol, and water. The different extracts were tested qualitatively for the identification of various phytochemical constituents. The plant powder was subjected to fluorescence analysis in daylight and in ultraviolet-light (254 nm and 365 nm) and heavy metal testing. Results: Water soluble extractive value was found to be higher than ethanol, Ethyl acetate, chloroform and petroleum ether. The total ash values were found to be higher followed by water soluble ash and acid insoluble ash. From the phytochemical screening result showed the presence of various phytochemical constituents such as alkaloid, glycoside, Carbohydrate, Flavonoids, Saponins, Terpenoids, Taninns and phytosterols. Fluorescence analysis of leaf powder of Bougainvillea spectabilis showed characteristic coloration with various chemicals. The presence of heavy metals like cobalt, mercury, nickel, silver and zinc were found negative. Conclusion: Thus the bioactive natural products in leaf extracts of Bougainvillea spectabilis can be used in the development of new pharmaceuticals that enhances therapeutic use.

Standardization of Rasagandhi mezhugu

Background: Rasagandhi mezhugu (RGM) is the higher order Siddha formulation comprising of mercury, arsenical compounds, minerals and herbs and is indicated for chronic diseases like Megarogam, Kiranthi, Puttrunoi, etc. Objectives: The objective of the present investigation was to standardize the formulation of RGM. Materials and Methods: The organoleptic characters such as color, appearance, taste, and odor were noted. RGM was screened for moisture content, total ash value, water-soluble ash, acid-insoluble ash, alcohol-soluble extractive value, water-soluble extractive value, microbial load, and specific pathogen to estimate the quality of the study drug. Results: The outcomes of the physiochemical analysis of RGM were found to be within standard limits. RGM is free from specific pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Pseudomonas, and Staphylococcus aureus. The overall safety regarding heavy-metal content was assured by quantifying the metal content using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy. The high-performance thin-layer chromatography fingerprint of RGM was generated. Conclusion: The results attained from the study could be used as a reference for setting limits for the quality assurance and quality control of Rasagandhi mezhugu.

Pharmacognostical and phytochemical studies of Atibala (Abutilon indicum [Linn.] sweet) fruit.

Abutilon indicum (Linn.) Sweet (Malvaceae), generally called as "Atibala" is a plant of high medicinal importance. The plant possesses several beneficial effects such as cooling, laxative, digestive, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, astringent, diuretic, expectorant, antihelmintic, aphrodisiac, and demulcent which is widely used in the Ayurveda system of medicine. The current study is aimed to establish the macroscopy, powder microscopy and physicochemical analysis of A. indicum fruits. The Pharmacognostical studies on A. indicum fruits, including parameters such as morphological evaluation, powder microscopy, ash values, foreign organic matter, extractive value, phytochemical, fluorescence studies, and high-performance thin-layer chromatography fingerprint profile, are established in the current study. Fruit powder microscopy has shown diagnostic characteristics such as stellate hairs of different sizes, testa, lignified endocarp, and palisade cells. The loss on drying value of fruit powder was 7.7% w/w. The total ash values of the drug were found to be 10.5% and acid insoluble ash 2.4% w/w with respect to the air-dried crude drug. Water-soluble and alcohol-soluble extractives were found to be 9.64% w/w and 9.04% w/w, respectively. Phytochemical characterization of aqueous, alcoholic extracts of A. indicum fruit revealed the presence of proteins, carbohydrates, phenols, flavonoids, saponins, and steroids. The powder microscopical and phytochemical studies observed in this study can serve as a valuable resource for the authentication of A. indicum fruits.

STANDARDIZATION AND TOXICOLOGICAL STUDIES OF THE LEAF OF SENNA SIAMEA IRWIN & BARNEBY (FABACEAE) COLLECTED FROM AGULU IN AWKA SOUTH OF ANAMBRA STATE

Background: Pharmacognostic standards and toxicological studies of the leaf of S. siamea were carried out. Objectives: To determine the quantitative phytochemical constituents present, pharmacognostic standards and toxicological effect of the methanol leaf extract and fractions of S. siamea. Methodology: Fresh leaves of S. siamea were collected, dried, pulverizes to powder and subjected to pharmacognostic and quantitative phytochemical analysis. The pulverized leaves were cold macerated in methanol for three days with intermittent shaking and exchange of fresh solvent every 24 hrs (aliquot extraction). Fractionation was done using n-hexane, ethylacetate and butanol. Chromatographic analysis of the methanol extract and fractions were obtained using standard methods. The methanol extract and fractions where screened for phytochemical constituents and toxicological effects using standard methods. Acute toxicity (LD50) of the extract was determined using Lorke’s method. Results: Macroscopic and microscopic examinatios revealed acute apex, pinnate veination and diacytic stomata, trichomes respectively. Phytochemical screening of the extract and fractions revealed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, tannins etc. Proximate analysis of S. siamea revealed moisture content of 5.50 %, total ash value of 15.00 %, water soluble ash of 2.00 % etc. The LD50 was found to be > 5000 mg/kg. Increase in ALT, AST and ALP when metanol extract and fractions were administered were not statistically different from the control group, indicating no hepatotoxic potential. Increase in PCV, Hb and RBC when metanol extract and fractions were administered were not statistically different from control group. The non-significant decrease in the levels of ALP, ALT and AST indicates that the extract has possible hepatoprotective effect. The non-significant decrease in the levels of RBC, Hb and PCV indicates that the extract does not affect the heamatopoietic system when administered orally and at the doses used in the study. Conclusions: Specific standards obtained from the study may be compiled into a monograph of S.siemea plant that may constitute in herbal pharmacopoeia.

STANDARDIZATION OF SNOW MOUNTAIN GARLIC

Background: Snow mountain garlic (SMG) is also known as Kashmiri garlic and ek pothi lahsun is herb which grows in high altitude and in low temperature conditions. It has shown beneficial effects in breathing discomforts like common cold, Asthma, flu also refines the blood circulation Various standardization parameters have been recorded in this study. Objectives: The present study focuses on standardization of SMG. Materials and Methods: The standardization parameter follow WHO Guidelines of herbal drugs. Standardization parameter like macroscopic characters, extractive value (hot extraction), ash value (total ash, acid insoluble ash and water-soluble ash), bitterness value, swelling Index, phytochemical screening have been studied. Results: The pharmacognostic studies shows that SMG is semi obtuse in shape and have pale brown outer covering and inner colour is white with little sticky latex. It has characteristic odour and slight astringent taste. The physiochemical analysis shows different extractive values in solvents, with maximum extractives obtained in hydro alcohol (45%). total ash value observed was 1.038%, acid insoluble ash 0%, water soluble ash 0.16%, bitterness value of 0.030mg/ml, swelling index of 1.06 and foaming index was found to be less than 100. Conclusion: The Standardization of snow mountain garlic was performed and the data obtained can be further utilized for establishing the identity and purity of the drug.
 Key Words: Snow mountain garlic, Kashmiri garlic, Standardization parameter, Physiochemical analysis, Phytochemical evaluation

COLOCASIA ESCULENTA STARCH: NOVEL ALTERNATIVE DISINTEGRANT FOR PHARMACEUTICAL APPLICATION

Oral drug delivery system has always been the most prevalent route of administration and continuous efforts are made to improve the drug delivery by this route. Tablets are one of the most extensively used dosage forms and various excipients have been developed for their formulation. The purpose of the current research work was to isolate and study the physicochemical properties of the Colocasia esculenta starch and further compare its disintegration ability with maize starch. Starch was isolated from C. esculenta corms by aqueous extraction method and possesses characteristics that are typical of starches. It was further evaluated for the presence of other foreign matter and phytoconstituents. Results showed that the isolated sample was free from foreign organic matter and the total ash value was found to be 0.4%. Tablets were prepared by the wet granulation method by varying concentrations in the range of 2.5 to 10% w/w for both the starches. Pre and post-compression parameters were studied and were found to be within the pharmacopoeial limits. Disintegration tests showed that disintegration time decreases with increasing concentration of both the starches. At 10% w/w concentration, disintegration time was found to be lowest, hence it was selected as an optimized formulation Stability studies were performed on F4 batch and it was found to be stable. The determination of disintegration efficiency indicates that C. esculenta starch exhibits disintegrating potential.

PHARMACOGNOSTICAL EVALUATION OF EMBELIA RIBES AND CAMELLIA SINENSIS: COMPARATIVE STUDIES OF THEIR ANTHELMINTIC ACTIVITY

Objective: The present research work deals with the establishment of a standardization parameter for the Pharmacognositical evaluation of the plant Embelia Ribes and Camellia sinensis. Embelia Ribes is widely using in parasitic intestinal infection, however; Camellia sinensis is mainly used in the beverage preparation, for their Antioxidant activity but their anthelmintic effect is unknown. The present study aims to find out the effect of Camellia sinensis against pheritima Posthuma and compare their anthelmintic effect with Embelia Ribes.
 Methods: The study has been performed under the different parameters 1). The physicochemical parameter includes total Ash value, acid insoluble ash value, water-soluble ash value, moisture content, and foreign organic matter 2). The phytochemical investigation includes the Extraction of Embelia Ribes and Camellia sinensis in different solvents in the increasing order of their polarity with Petroleum ether, chloroform, ethanol, distilled respectively and showed the presence of Alkaloids, carbohydrates, glycosides, tannins, flavonoids, phenolic compounds. 3) The pharmacological studies include the In vitro anthelmintic effect of Embellia Ribes and Camellia sinensis (ethanolic extract) against Pheritima Posthuma. The paralysis time and death time were studied.
 Results: Shows the physic-chemical parameters such as total Ash value, acid insoluble ash value, water-soluble ash value, moisture content and foreign organic matter, which was determined to be not more than 8.98%, 1.5%, 7.8%, 3.2% and 0.25% in Embelia ribes as well as 7.78%, 1.6%, 8%, 2.2% and 0.21% in Camellia sinensis. Anthelemintic effect of Embellia ribes and Camellia sinensis (ethanolic extract) were investigated by measuring the paralysis time (75+3.76, 60+4.30, 48+4.40 and 73.32+3.80, 53.34+2.50, 38.55+3.45 respectively) and death time (140+2.82, 135+9.95, 97.55+4.25 and 124.85+5.30, 110.82+5.80, 80.30+2.80) at three different concentration 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, against Pheritima posthuma and compares with the standard drug (Albendazole).
 Conclusion: Camellia sinensis (ethanolic extract) extract and affords protection against helminthes (Pheritima Posthuma) and results show that Camellia sinensis is as effective as embellia ribes.

Samanea saman: A Novel Mucoadhesive Gum

Natural polymers are the most accepted pharmaceutical excipients of formulator’s choice. The reasons for this are their cost effectiveness, biocompatibility and availability. In this research article natural gum was extracted from the seeds of Samanea saman by using ethanol as a solvent. The physicochemical characterization like Loss on drying, Total ash and Acid insoluble ash, Swelling Index, Viscosity and qualitative evaluation of purified gum was done. The percent yield of gum was found to 6% w/w and the swelling index was found to be 18.5. Total ash value (7.5% w/w) and Acid insoluble ash value (1.4%w/w) shows purity of gum whereas 3.2% w/w loss on drying suggest low moisture content of gum. Chemical evaluation shows presence of carbohydrate. X ray diffraction graph of gum shows crystalline nature. The gum has average particle size 45.0±0.32 to 50±0.18μm, and the surface texture of the particles was found to be rough and irregular by scanning Electron Microscopy. Mucoadhesive property of gum was evaluated by Swelling index, Mucoadhesive force, Shear stress measurement. For this study polymeric tablet of gum with concentrations like 10%, 30%, 50%, 70% and 90 %w/w were formulated and the results shows best mucoadhesive and swelling property. From the above result the gum may be used in the formulation of mucoadhesive dosage form.

A Diagnostic approach for same looking plants for their Pharmacognosy value

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

Pharmacognostic evaluation, estimation of phenolic, ϐlavonoid composition and antioxidant activity of Aspidopterys indica (Willd.)W.Theob: An endemic plant to peninsular India

Aspidopterys indica (Willd.)W.Theob is endemic plant to Peninsular India belonging to family Malpighiaceae commonly known as Chuttakulaa-tigga. The study aims to explore Pharmacognostic, Phytochemical evaluation, Total Phenolic, Flavonoid Content and Antioxidant Activities.The Pharmacognostic study comprises of Ultrasonic extraction, microscopy of Leaf and stem, fluorescence investigation, ash values, extractive values, Loss on drying, foaming index, crude fiber content, total phenolic and flavonoid content, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity and Nitric oxide scavenging activities were assessed.The leaf shows presence of paracytic stomata, T shaped trichomes, Stem shows presence of vessels and pith. The physicochemical characters assessed as Total Ash value 10%, Water insoluble ash 0.5%, acid insoluble ash 8.5%, sulphated ash 4.2%, alcoholic extractive value 16.8%, water soluble extractive value 17.6%, chloroform extractive value 0.8%, Loss on drying 3.36%, Foaming index is <100, crude fiber content is 2.4%, phytoconstituents like tannins, flavonoids, phytosterols and alkaloids, carbohydrates are available in methanol, aqueous, chloroform extracts. Total phenolic content turned greatest in methanolic extract (90.69±2.86 mg GAE/g), Aqueous extract showed maximum total flavonoid content (109.89±0.33mg of QE/g). Methanolic extract indicated most intense 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging action IC50(134.97±8.37) whereas aqueous extract is potent to exclude nitrile radical IC50108.00±4.18). Total phenolic content - DPPH scavenging assay are positively correlated. The microscopical, physicochemical parameters are valuable to authenticate the identification and purity of the drug. A.indica is a perspective source of antioxidants.

Preliminary phytochemical screening, physicochemical analysis and in-vitro antioxidant activity of selected Holigarna species- Endemic plant species of Western Ghats

Introduction and Aim: Plants from Anacardiaceae family are used in indigenous system of medicine for their anti-arthritic, antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Among them, Holigarna species are widely known as toxic members of Anacardeaceae family which are endemic to Western Ghats. It is commonly known as allergic plant which causes contact dermatitis if contacted. However, young leaves and seeds are used against haemorrhoids, obesity, and cancer and skin diseases. Despite the claims and the use of Holigarna ferrugenia, Holigarna nigra and Holigarna grahamii for the management of skin diseases in traditional medicine, little is known and documented so the aim of the study was to explore the in vitro antioxidant activity and to analyse qualitative and quantitative of phytochemicals along with their physicochemical properties.
 Materials and Methods: Physicochemical parameters such as moisture, pH, total ash, acid-insoluble ash, and elemental values were determined. Qualitative and quantitative analysis were carried out along with different antioxidant assays for evaluating the antioxidant activity of aqueous crude extract of H. ferrugenia, H. nigra and H. grahamii.
 Results: Physicochemical analysis revealed the presence of trace elements. Preliminary phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, saponins and steroids in aqueous crude extract of H. ferrugenia, H. nigra and H. grahamii. The free radical scavenging activity of all plants exhibited better antioxidant properties.
 Conclusion: The results indicated that the leaves contain an appreciable number of bioactive compounds and presence of these phytochemicals, especially the phenols and flavonoids could be the reason behind the use of both plants in ethno-medicine for the management of various ailments.

Phytochemical Screening and in vitro Free Radical Scavenging Activity of Hydroalcohol Extract of Mimusops elengi L. Root

Background Plants have been proven to be offering a wide number of medicinal uses. Mimusops elengi plant is rich in phytoconstituents present almost in every part of the plant. Roots are the parts on which minimum work has been done.Objective The objective of the present study was a preliminary evaluation of physicochemical and free radical scavenging activity of Mimusops elengi L. root. Methods Many standardization parameters like extractive values total ash value water-soluble ash value and acid insoluble ash moisture content and loss on drying LOD of Mimusops elengi L. root were analyzed. The total phenolic content TPC and total flavonoid content TFC were measured. Free radical scavenging FRS activity was evaluated by assessing DPPH scavenging activity.Results The results of phytochemicals screening of hydroalcohol extract revealed the presence of various secondary metabolites including alkaloids flavonoids saponins sterols and tannins. The amount TPC and TFC were found to be 21.63plusmn0.0663 mg of gallic acid equivalent weightg of extract and 159.0 plusmn 0.9 mg of quercetin equivalent weight g of extract respectively. The extract showed potent FRS activity IC50 value of 96.13 microgmL.Conclusions The present study revealed Mimusops elengi L. Root contains most potent antioxidant agents and has significant FRS activity.nbsp

A Pharmacognostical and Phytochemical study of Sookshma Eladi Choornam

Introduction: Sookshma Eladi choornam is one of the Ayurvedic formulations specially mentioned for Kaphaja Hridroga in Hridroga prakarana of Bhaishajya Ratnavali. Dhamani pratichaya (Atherosclerosis) is one of the diseases of Kaphaja nanatmaja vaydhi which is the more important cause for Ischemic Heart Disease. The cause for Atherosclerosis could be Hyperlipidemias. Eladi choornam is a compound preparation which contains powders of Sookshma ela (Elettaria cardamomum Maton.) and Pippali moolam (root of Piper longum L.,). As these drugs are Katu vipaka in nature they can be used in Hyerlipidemia. To know the efficacy of the drugs their quality parameters are highly essential to manufacture in the large scale. Method: The present study deals with the Pharmacognostical and phyto-chemical study of Sookshma eladi choornam including Thin Layer chromatography study (TLC) as per the standard literature. Result: Consistency of Sookshma eladi choornam is fine powder. Colour was brown, odour was aromatic spicy smell, Taste was pungent, touch was smooth powder form, Qualitative study showed that pH is 4.9, total ash value 12 %, loss on drying is 4.5%, Water soluble matter17%, Alcohol soluble matter 8%, Acid insoluble ash 8.5%. Thin Layer chromatography (TLC) revealed one yellow spot. Dissolution time is 4 minutes and Moisture content was 8%. Phytochemicals as Alkaloids, Glycosides, Tannins, Flavonoids and Phenols were found. Conclusion: Pharmacognostical, phyto-chemical and TLC studies inferred that the formulation meets the minimum quality standards. The study may be used as reference standard in the further quality control researches.