Water Soluble Ash Value Research Articles

Micromorphological and Pharmacognostic Studies of Leaf and Stem of Solenostemon monostachyus P. Beauv (Lamiaceae)

Solenostemon monostachyus P. Beauv (Lamiaceae), it’s ethnomedical uses include anti-plasmodial, anti-pyretic, antiulcerogenic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive activities. The aim of this study was to employ the quality control parameters in the evaluation of the leaf and stem of Solenostemon monostachyus to aid in the identification and standardization of the medicinal plant. The plant leaves and stems were collected, identified, air-dried, pulverized and stored in separate glass containers. Standard procedures were employed to obtain the microscopic features of the fresh and powdered samples, micromeritic, chemomicroscopy, fluorescence properties, moisture contents, ash values and soluble extractive values. The results of the microscopic studies using fresh and powdered leaf samples revealed the presence of diacytic stomata on both the abaxial and adaxial surfaces (amphistomatic), with stomatal index of 27.9% and 14.8% respectively. The result of the micromeritics properties of the powdered leaf and stem samples showed angles of repose of 38.0o and 46.0o, Carr’s index of 23.7% and 32.5% and Hausner’s ratios of 1.3 and 1.5 respectively. Results for the moisture content, total, acid-insoluble and water-soluble ash values were 11.7%w/w, 13.7%w/w, 1.8%w/w and 9.4%w/w for the leaf and 13.3%w/w, 17.3%w/w, 1.8%w/w and 9.2%w/w for the stem respectively. Extractive values for water-soluble, methanol-soluble and ethanol-soluble were 26.5%w/w, 32.3%w/w, 14.5%w/w and 15.5%w/w, 15.8%w/w and 14.5%w/w for the leaf and stem respectively. Chemomicroscopy indicated the presence of lignin, calcium oxalate crystals and protein in the leaf and stem. The results obtained therefore could be used to establish pharmacopoeial standard for the fresh and powdered drug products of Solenostemon monostachyus, thus preventing adulteration.

Zarawand Mudharaj (Aristolochia rotunda Linn.), an important medicinal plant used in Unani system of medicine: A review

Background: Zarawand Mudharaj (Aristolochia rotunda L.) belongs to family Aristolochiaceae. According to Unani scholars, it is a female plant of Aristolochia fontanesii Boiss. & Reut. (Syn. A. longa L.), usually found growing in Mediterranean regions, Central Asia and South Europe.
 Purpose of the review: The main aim of this review is to highlight various aspects of Zarawand Mudharaj such as temperament, botanical description, pharmacological properties, therapeutic uses etc, as mentioned in Unani literature that will ultimately guide researchers to design various studies for further exploration of this important medicinal plant.
 Materials and methods: The present review has been carried out through extensive literature survey of various classical Unani and botanical texts, and published papers available on different search engines. The botanical names and their synonyms were validated through ‘The Plant List’ (www.theplantlist.org).
 Results: In Unani medicine, the rhizome of Zarawand Mudharaj is used for the treatment of several ailments viz. stomach and liver diseases, jaundice, cough, septic wounds, splenomegaly, gout etc. Apart from its use as single drug, it has also been added in many compound preparations viz. Anqarooya-i-Kabir, Habb-i-Rewand, Majun Falasifa, Majun Dabeedul Ward etc. A study on physicochemical standardization of rhizome of Aristolochia rotunda L. has reported the presence of moisture content, total ash, acid insoluble ash, water soluble ash, sulphated ash, alcohol and water-soluble extractive values within normal limits. The same study has also revealed that the hydro-alcoholic extract of rhizome of Aristolochia rotunda L. possesses significant hepatoprotective activity against CCl4 induced liver toxicity in albino Wistar rats. Several toxicity reports have pointed out that aristolochic acid containing herbal drugs including Aristolochia rotunda L. cause renal impairment and other serious adverse reactions. 
 Conclusion: It is concluded that Aristolochia rotunda L. is widely used in Unani system of medicine. However, extensive studies on pharmacognosy, pharmacology, toxicology, phytochemistry and quality control of different parts of this potential medicinal plant have not been carried out so far. Therefore, such studies on modern scientific parameters may be conducted for further exploration so that the benefits may reach the masses.
 Keywords: Zarawand Mudharaj; Aristolochia rotunda L.; Unani medicine; Hepatoprotective; Aristolochic acid; Toxicity

PHYTOCHEMICAL, PHARMACOGNOSTIC AND HEPATOPROTECTIVE ACTIVITY OF THE LEAVES OF TECOMA STANS

Tecoma stans a woody shrubs belonging to the Bignoniaceae family and is commonly known as Pelli Kaner. The present paper shows various pharmacognostic standards such as taxonomy of leaf which shows leaf is found to be simple with the alternate arrangement, serrulate margin with obovate shape, obtuse apex and oblique, rounded base, pinnate venation. Secondly, microscopic characters are determined by cutting its leaf transverse section as well as powder microscopy, these studies provide various information about the arrangement of cell-like xylem, phloem, the upper and lower epidermis. Vein islet and vein termination number etc. Physical and chemical parameters such as total ash, acid insoluble ash, water-soluble ash, moisture content, water-soluble, and extractive value of leaf are calculated. Various chemical reagents are used to identify the chemical nature of leaf extract. Ethanolic extract of leaf is found to be active and 200 and 400 mg when in vivo evaluated for hepatoprotective activity. Ethanolic extract of the leaf also contains total phenolic content of 1.36 ± 0.02 mg/gm of dried extract equivalent to Gallic acid, the total flavonoids content of the extract was evaluated to be 4.41± 0.02 mg/gram and potential antioxidant activity which is comparable to the standards.

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

Preliminary pharmacognostic standardization of leaves of Camellia sinensis leaf (Theaceae)

Camellia sinensis, being belonging Theaceae family, is present more India less than China. A study on Camellia sinensis leaves sample extracted the air-dried leaves powder with different solvents like n-hexane, petroleum ether, chloroform (61̊C), ethanol (78̊C) and distilled water. Preliminary phytochemical analysis was done measurement of various parameters like extractive value, (moisture content) loss on drying, and quantitative estimation of total ash, and acid insoluble ash, and water-soluble ash value may be helpful for identification of tea leaves powdered drug. The fully grown leaves are bright green colour smooth and leathery, young leaves are pubescent. The estimation of powder microscopy presence in the parenchyma, calcium oxalate, vascular traces, upper epidermis and lower epidermis. These studied recommended that the examined pharmacognostic and phytochemical parameters are of whole great value in quality control, formulation development, and biological activities of camellia sinensis.

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.

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

PHARMACOGNOSTICAL, PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND PHYTOCEMICAL STUDY OF Glycyrrhiza Glabra Linn.

Introduction - Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn. is a perennial herb of family Leguminoseae, used very extensively in Ayurveda classics. It is having property of aphrodisiac, trichogenous, expectorant, haemostatic, intellect promoting etc. Objective – Objective of this study to examine the Pharmacognastical and Phytochemical properties of Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn. Material and Method – Dry sample of Glycyrrhiza was collected from Market. The qualitative microscopy, phytochemical screening, physicochemical evolution and TLC studies were carried out according to the standard procedure recommended by API and other standards. Result –The sample is having sweetish taste, faint and characteristic odour, externally dark brown in colour and internally golden yellow. Cork, Phellogen and Phelloderm, Secondary phloem, Cambium, Secondary xylem, Medullary rays and Pith are present in microscopic examinations, from outer to inner side. Cork (in surface view), Tangentially cut medullary ray cells, Fragment of vessel, Calcium Oxalate Crystals, Starch, Mucilage were seen in powder microscopy. pH value of test sample was 5.73. Water Soluble Extractive value (25.0064%) was more than Alcohol Soluble Extractive value (12.7398 %). Total ash value of test sample was 6.131 %. Acid insoluble ash value was 0.79 %, Water soluble ash value was 1.819 %. In TLC, Rf values were found 0.23, 0.58, 0.71 after derivatization with vanillin – Sulphuric acid reagent. Car-bohydrate, alkaloid, amino acid, tannin, protein, saponin, glycosides, flavonoids and tannin were present in the sample. Conclusion - test sample of Glycyrhiza complies all standard when matches with the reference standard book. It suggests that test sample is authentic and without any impurities and adulteration.

Phytopharmacognostic Evaluation of the Leaves OF Gnetum africanum Welw (Gnetaceae)

Background: Gnetum africanum Welw (Gnetaceae) also called African salad and Afang in Ibibio language is an evergreen, perennial, shade-tolerant vine with woody stems which can climb up to 12m or more from a tuberous root-stock. It has culinary and medicinal importance.
 Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate pharmacognostic parameters of Gnetum africanum.
 Methods: The leaves were identified, collected, air-dried, pulverized, weighed and subjected to the evaluation of its microscopy, micromeritics, chemomicroscopy, fluorescence, soluble extractive values, moisture content and ash values using standard procedures.
 Results: The results obtained from microscopy revealed that the leaf has brachyparacytic, stomata, 3-5 armed and stellate trichromes on the abaxial surface. The epidermal cell wall pattern was undulate on the abaxial surface and sinuous on the adaxial surface. Stomatal number was found to be 3.1 ± 0.25 on the abaxial surface and Stomatal index was found to be 16.8% on the abaxial surface. The micromeritics analysis of the leaf powder revealed passable flow with the angle of repose of 420. The result of chemomicroscopy of the leaf revealed the presence of mucilage, lignin, calcium oxalate crystals, starch and oil. For water-soluble extractive value, the result was 13.25%w/w, methanol-soluble extractive value 4.25%w/w, ethanol-soluble extractive value 4%w/w, moisture content 10.5%w/w, total ash value was 5%w/w, acid-insoluble ash value 1%w/w, water-soluble ash value 2%w/w and sulfated- ash value 6% w/w.
 Conclusion: The results obtained from the pharmacognostic study provides information for the identity, quality and purity of Gnetum africanum.

Phytopharmacognostic Standardization of the Leaves of Buchholzia coriacea Engler. (Capparidaceae)

Buchholzia coriacea Engl. is a medicinal plant belonging to the family Capparidaceae. It has antimicrobial, anthelmintic, antidiabetic and antihypercholesterol activities. The aim of this study was to employ the quality control parameters in the evaluation of the leaf of B. coriacea. The plant leaves were collected, air dried, pulverized and stored in a clean glass container. Standard procedures were carried out to obtain the microscopic features of the fresh and powdered samples, micromeritic, chemomicroscopy, fluorescence properties, soluble extractive values, moisture contents and ash values. The results of the microscopic study using fresh and powdered leaf samples revealed the presence of anomocytic stomata on the abaxial surface (hypostomatic) with mean length of 31.8 ± 0.6 cm. The cell shape was polygonal and straight anticlinal cell wall pattern. Results of the micromeritic properties of the powdered sample showed bulk volume of 31.00± 0.70cm, tapped volume of 25.1± 0.20 cm, bulk density of 0.32 ± 0.01g/m, tapped density of 0.39± 0.01g/ml, flow rate of 2.2 ± 0.08g/s, angle of repose of 26.1 ± 1.3 degrees, Carr’s index of 18.9± 1.35 %, Hausner’s ratio of 1.23 ± 0.02, pH of 8.0 when cold and 8.2 when hot for the powdered sample liquid extract. The results of the chemomicroscopic study revealed the presence of lignin, mucilage, calcium oxalate crystals, oil, calcium carbonate, but starch was absent. Results for the ethanol-soluble extractive value was 7 ± 0.00% , water-soluble extractive value was 14 ± 0.00% and methanol-soluble extractive value was 3 ± 0.00% for the powdered samples. Results for the moisture content was 10.3 ± 0.00% , total ash values was 6.3± 0.00% , acid-insoluble ash value was 1 ± 0.00% , water-soluble ash value was 3±0.00% and sulfated ash values was 7.5 ± 0.00% . In conclusion, the above evaluation methods and parameters there in could be used to identify and authenticate both the fresh and powdered crude drug product of Buchholzia coriacea.

Phytopharmceutical Standardization of Leaves of Jatropha tanjorensis J. L. Ellis & Saroja. (Euphorbiaceae)

Jatropha tanjorensis J.L. Ellis & Saroja. (Euphorbiaceae) is a shrub commonly used as an edible vegetable and is also used as a tonic herb. The study was aimed to evaluate pharmacognostic parameters of Jatropha tanjorensis leaves. The plant leaves were collected, air-dried, pulverized and stored in a clean glass container. Standard procedures were employed to obtain the microscopic features of the fresh and powdered samples, micromeritic, chemomicroscopy, fluorescence properties, moisture content, ash values and soluble extractive values were also carried out. The results of the microscopic studies using the fresh and powered leaf samples revealed the presence of anomocytic, anomalous and paracytic stomata on the abaxial surface and anomocytic stomata on the adaxial surface. The plant sample also possessed unicellular trichomes. Results of micromeritic properties of the powdered samples show bulk volume of 38.67±0.7, tapped volume of 30.00±0.4, bulk density of 0.26±0.00, tapped density of 0.33±0.00, angle of repose of 350, Carr’s Index of 22.96±2.15, Hausner’s ratio of 1.27±0.03, pH of 7.51 and 7.52 when hot and cold respectively. Chemomicroscopy studies revealed the presence of lignin, mucilage, calcium oxalate crystals, starch and oil in the powdered leaf. Results for moisture contents was 18.33±0.01% w/w, total ash value was 9.33±0.00%w/w, acid-insoluble ash value was 0.67±0.01%w/w, water-soluble ash value was 4.0±0.00%w/w and sulfated ash value was 14±0.01%w/w. Results for ethanol-soluble extractive value was 15±0.00%w/w, methanol-soluble extractive value was 19±0.00%w/w and water-soluble extractive value was 27±0.01%w/w. In conclusion, the above evaluation and parameters could be used to establish pharmacopoeial standard of both fresh and powdered drug of Jatropha tanjorensis.

Physicochemical Characterization of the Siddha Metallo Mineral Drug - Veera Aya Chenduram (VAC)

Veera ayachenduram (VAC) is a metallo-mineral drug cited in Siddha text literature KannusamiyamparambaraiVaithiyam. The study aimed to standardises the VAC by evaluating its physicochemical characters such as colour, ash value, pH value analyses the heavy metal composition in modern instrumental techniques. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) and to find out the particle size through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and. The total ash value was found to be 7.7% w/w, acid-insoluble ash value is 1.25% w/w, water-soluble ash value is 25.32% w/w, and The pH value is 6.5. The ICP-OES reveals that heavy metals such as mercury, lead, arsenic, and cadmium are within the limit. High-resolution SEM analysis of the drug indicated the existence of nanoparticles.

Physicochemical, phytochemical, and GC–MS analysis of leaf and fruit of Pouteria campechiana (Kunth) Baehni

Medicinal plants have been used to treat various illnesses for decades. The present study supports the physicochemical, phytochemical, and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis of the methanolic extract of Pouteria campechiana leaves and fruits, in order to propose that the bona fide plant material is suitably for traditional use. The physicochemical evaluations and fluorescence analysis were determined according to standard protocols. The phytochemical constituents were carried out by both qualitative and quantitative methods. The GC–MS analysis was carried out to identify the compounds present. The physicochemical parameters revealed that the total ash content of P. campechiana leaves is more than the fruit. The water-soluble ash value of P. campechiana leaves is less than the acid-soluble ash value of the leaf, but the water-soluble ash value of P. campechiana fruit is greater than the acid-soluble ash value of the fruit. The water-extractive value of P. campechiana leaves and fruit is better when compared to the alcohol-extractive value. Moisture content, swelling index, and foaming index were found to be greater in the leaves than the fruit. Preliminary phytochemical screening showed the presence of various phytoconstituents. Quantitative analysis revealed that the leaf extract consists of high phenolic compounds followed by total flavonoids and total tannin than the fruit extract. The total alkaloid was found to be higher in the fruit extract than the leaf extract. Energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer analysis of the leaves showed the presence of elements such as N, O, Cl, K, Ca, and C and fruits showed the presence of N, O, K, and C. The GC–MS analysis of P. campechiana leaf and fruit reveals the presence of 9 and 12 compounds, respectively. The results of the present study provide apparent information of the plant and also serve as an analytical tool for appropriate identification. Hence, this plant exhibits rich phytopharmaceutical importance.

Pharmacognostic, Physicochemical and Phytochemical Investigations on Aerial Parts of Argemone mexicana L.

Background and objectives: In India, Argemone mexicana is traditionally used against fever, wounds, worms and malaria. In Mali the efficacy and safety of “Sumafura Tiemoko Bengaly” an herbal tea based on A. mexicana aerial parts against malaria have been demonstrated. This study was aimed to investigate the pharmacognostic, physicochemical and phytochemical parameters of its aerial parts. Methods: Macroscopy, microscopy, chemo-microscopy, phytochemical, mineral and physicochemical analyses were performed using standard methods. Results: The macroscopy showed that A. mexicana is an herbal plant with prickly both on its greenish stem and the pinnatelobed leaves; the flower is terminal and yellow and the fruit is a capsule with thorns. The microscopy revealed the presence of epidermal cells with actinocytic stomata, calcium oxalate prism, lacticifers, palisade cells, vascular bundle, fibers and collenchyma cells in the fresh leaf and the dry aerial parts. The chemo-microscopy revealed the presence of lignins, tannins, starch, calcium oxalate, oils and proteins. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of carbohydrates, alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, saponins, sterols and triterpenoids. The physicochemical parameters as observed included moisture content (8.2 %); total ash value (16.7 %); acid-insoluble ash value (2.9 %); water-soluble ash value (4.8 %); ethanol - soluble extractive value (17.2 %) and water- soluble extractive value (34.3 %). Six minerals (Fe, Cu, Mn, Mg, Pb, and Cd) have been also measured. Conclusion: These parameters help to establish the correct identity of A. mexicana and check the occurrence of adulterations. Further, they are useful for the standardization and pharmacopoeia development.

Studies in pharmacognostic characters of the climber <em>Erycibe paniculata</em> Roxb. of Convolvulaceae

The present scientific investigation deals with the pharmacognosy and preliminary phytochemical screening of the leaf and stem bark of Erycibe paniculata Roxb., an ethnomedicinal climber used in curing the fever, cholera, night blindness, sprains, constipation, etc. Standard methods have been followed to study the microscopic, macroscopic, physicochemical characters and fluorescence behavior of the powdered samples of this plant. Phytochemical screening including GCMS of the stem bark has also been performed. In leaf epidermal micromorphology, it was found that stomata are anisocytic type distributed in hypostomatic leaf. Stomatal Index was 13.879.Glandular unicellular type of trichomes found in both surfaces of the leaf. Non-glandular trichomes with 2 to 6-arms were observed on the epidermal surfaces of petiole and stem. Petiole in T.S. is semi-lunar in outline housing 3 vascular bundles. Total ash of the stem bark was found 9%, of which acid insoluble ash and water soluble ash values were observed 0.092% and 7.626%, respectively. Moisture content of the bark sample was 0.5%. Out of five solvent extractsofthe stem bark, methanolic extract showed highest extractive value (8.672%). Important groups of phytochemicals like tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, etc. are detected in stem bark extract. Nine bioactive compounds have been identified through GCMS analysis from them ethanolic bark extract which, in turn, indicate its therapeutic properties. Present study provides the pharmacognostic characters of both leaf and stem bark of Erycibe paniculata which will be an instrumental in authentication and quality control of the crude drugs procured from this medicinal plant.

Exploring the Pharmacognostic Features, Anti-oxidant and Lipid Lowering Potential of Fagopyrum esculentum Moench. Seed

Background: Fagopyrum esculentum Moench. is a herb consumed as food and has medicinal value. It is a rich source of bioactive nutrients which cure and prevent many ailments. Traditionally, it is used to treat hypertension, diabetes, constipation, cancer etc. Methods and Objective: Present work illustrates morphological, microscopic and physicochemical parameters of Fagopyrum esculentum seeds as per WHO guidelines, in vitro antioxidant activity; assessed by DPPH scavenging method, hydrogen peroxide scavenging assay and β-carotene linoleic acid bleaching method and study of lipid lowering potential of the ethyl acetate and ethanol extract of seeds on normal diet fed Wistar rats. Results: Morphological studies delineated the triangular shape, dark brown colour, 8 mm length and 6 mm width of the seed. The microscopic examination of the transverse section of seed depicted features like testa or pericarp (seed coat), the endosperm, embryo and sclerenchyma cells. Study of physiochemical parameters exhibited 0.3±0.02% of foreign matter and 1.44±0.51% crude fibre content. Total ash, acid insoluble ash and water soluble ash value were 6.7±1.7%, 1.9±0.23% and 3.9± 0.31% respectively. Alcohol soluble and water soluble extractive value came out to be 65.02± 3.21 mg/g and 12.7±1.24 mg/g respectively. Foaming index was less than 100, swelling index was found to be 0.5±0.01 ml/g. Loss on drying was 4.02±1.27%. Phytochemical screening of ethyl acetate and ethanol extract revealed the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, phenolic compounds, phytosterols and flavonoids. Trace amount of heavy metals (arsenic, cadmium, lead, mercury) were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Pesticide residue analysis confirmed the presence of nontoxic pesticides like dimethipin, hymexazol, phenothrin-2, methoprene, triadimenol, prohydrojasmon- 1, jasmolin ii, triademinol, jasmolin i, prohydrojasmone i, cyromazine in both the extracts by gc-ms spectrometer. The ethyl acetate and ethanol extract has shown significant in-vitro antioxidant activities demonstrated by the DPPH method (IC50 = 94.37±2.51 and 216.04±4.39 μg/ml respectively), hydrogen peroxide scavenging assay (IC50 = 83.72±3.72 and 193.47±5.05 µg/ml respectively) and β-carotene bleaching method (IC50 = 100.67±4.01 and 205.39±2.89 µg/ml respectively). Lipid lowering study performed on Wistar rats demonstrated a significant (p<0.001) decrease in serum Total Cholesterol (TC), Triglyceride (TG) and increase in High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) level as compared to normal group. Both the extracts have shown a non significant difference in the level of TG as compared to standard drug atorvastatin, depicting that the efficacy of extracts is at par with that of standard drug atorvastatin. Conclusion: Pharmacognostical study of the plant can be a very good tool for identification as well as authentication of a herb. Moreover, these parameters may be helpful in the development of monograph of the plant. Pharmacological activity confirmed Fagopyrum esculentum Moench. seed to be a good antioxidant and have lipid lowering potential.

Pharmacognostic Standardization and Physicochemical Analysis of Clerodendrum Wallichii (Merr.) Leaves

Background: Presently, the use of herbal medicines is expanding rapidly across the world. While considering source materials, authentication and standardization are prerequisites for herbal formulation in any system of medicine. The plant Clerodendrum Wallichii Merr. (Family: Lamiaceae) has been used for various ailments in traditional systems of medicines, particularly in the treatment of diarrhea, skin infection, inflammation and fever.
 Objectives: The present study was designed to establish the pharmacognostic standards and perform the physicochemical analysis of C. wallichii leaves. Macroscopic and microscopic studies were performed using the simple and trinocular microscope, respectively.
 Methods: The World Health Organization guidelines were followed for the physicochemical analysis of the plant. Fluorescence analysis was observed at daylight, short UV light, and long UV light. The leaves of C. wallichii were found dark green on the upper surface and light green in the lower surface which is odorless and bitter. The leaves are oblong to oblong-lanceolate with a smooth surface. The size of leaves varies from 11 to 18 cm in length and 2.5 to 4 cm in diameter.
 Results: Powdered microscopy showed the various characters like rare multicellular covering trichome, xylem vessels (reticulate), fiber, trichome base, stellate trichome, adaxial epidermal cell (rectangular), abaxial epidermal cell (irregular), vessels, stomata (anisocytic), calcium oxalate crystals (square and cubic). Physicochemical parameters like moisture content of dry powder of the plant was determined 9.3% W/W. The total ash, acid-insoluble, and water-soluble ash values were calculated as 10.48%, 1.08%, and 8.17%, respectively. The loss on drying was calculated as 9.3% W/W.
 Conclusion: Extractive values by cold and hot maceration method were also determined. Our obtained data help to authenticate the plant and establish its pharmacopoeial standards.

Antioxidant Potential and Brine Shrimp Lethality bioassay of Spilanthes acmella Flower Extract

The current research study has been carried out to explore the antioxidant activity and brine shrimp lethality bioassay of different fractions from the flower extract of Spilanthes acmella. Besides, this experiment was also assessed to find out the proximate analysis and phytochemical screening by following the perfect protocol. To fractionate by soxhletion using sequential extraction techniques powdered flower of the plant were treated with different solvents including n-hexane, chloroform, ethanol and water. For the evaluation of antioxidant activity, total antioxidant capacity determination, determination of total phenolic content and total Flvonoids contents by aluminium tricholoride method were used. In addition, ascorbic acid and gallic acid was used as a standard antioxidant compound in these studies. Concerning the proximate analysis, moisture content, total ash value, acid insoluble ash and water soluble ash value were found 8.6%, 3.76%, 3.30%, 3.20% respectively. To evaluate cytotoxicity, the brine shrimp lethality bioassay was used. For phytochemical screening different extract of those solvents were utilized that disclosed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, Tannins, amino acids on different fractions but the absence of reducing sugar and saponins. The results of all assay showed that all the extracts of Spilanthes acmella flower possess significant antioxidant activity. In brine shrimp lethality bioassay, ethanol extract of flower effect to brine shrimp nauplii and exhibiting highest toxicity having LC50 value 1.20 μg/ml as compared to standard dimethyl sulfoxide (LC50 1.31 µg/ml). These evaluations suggest that Spilanthes acmella flowers might be a better source of antioxidants and possess important cytotoxic effect.

Quality variation and standardization of black pepper (Piper nigrum): A comparative geographical evaluation based on instrumental and metabolomics analysis

Black pepper (Piper nigrum; BP), known as the 'king of spices', imported from various countries is widely available in Saudi Arabian markets, as its demand as a food as well as a medicine for minor ailments is increasing in the country. However, there is a lack of appropriate information regarding these samples in terms of quality variation and standardization. We thus aimed to evaluate the quality and standardize the BP sample with respect to its physicochemical characters, active principle variation [i.e. piperine (PPN)], toxicity, and biological activity. The main focus is to validate whether any difference exists in the quality and quantity of active principle in these samples. For this purpose, physicochemical (chemical tests and ash values) and instrumental analyses [accelerated solvent extraction (ASE), ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography (UHPLC)-diode array detector, infrared (IR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and inductively coupled plasma-MS (ICP-MS)] and biological evaluation {in vitro antioxidant activity [2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)] and cytotoxicity assay} were performed. An extract yield (g) with %recovery of 2.26 ± 4.24 (11.3) was obtained for the Vietnamese sample, using a fast and rapid method of extraction (ASE). These values were 1.22 ± 2.64 (6.1) and 0.75 ± 1.69 (3.75) for the Pakistani and Indian samples. Physicochemical tests revealed the presence of flavonoids and phenolic compounds in all samples; however, in the Vietnamese sample a low amount of total, acid-insoluble, and high water-soluble ash value was noted. IR and NMR was applied to further standardize the samples. Results of ICP-MS analysis showed a high amount of macronutrients and micronutrients in the samples tested while UHPLC analysis revealed a high amount of PPN (ng/mL) in the Pakistani sample (1,362,614.09); these values were 1,051,848.04 and 768,512.81 for the Vietnamese and Indian samples, respectively. In vitro antioxidant and cytotoxicity activities revealed higher potential for the Vietnamese sample. The samples were properly standardized and effectively differentiated in terms of quality and biological activities using a fast and reliable method, however it certainly does not mean that a particular geographical region is more better or productive in terms of herbal products.

English

Fadogia cienkowskii is a shrub used in folklore medicine. Evaluations of the leaves were carried out to determine the macroscopic, microscopic, chemomicroscopic, physicochemical and phytochemical profiles using standard methods. The macroscopic examination revealed fresh leaves are green, odourless with a bitter taste. The leaf is oblong-elliptic in shape and sub-acute at apex; rounded at the base with entire margin. Microscopic examination indicated the presence of calcium oxalate crystals, starch grains, xylem, phloem, trichomes, epidermal cells, collenchyma cells, paracytic stomata and reticulate vessels. Chemomicroscopic characters present are lignin, starch, cellulose, mucilage and calcium oxalate crystals. The physicochemical evaluation indicated 4.6% moisture content, 1.4% total ash value, 0.8% acid insoluble ash value, 0.4% water soluble ash value, 7.8% water soluble extractive value and 9.0% alcohol soluble extractive value. The phytochemical evaluation revealed the presence of tannins (17.6%), saponins (1%), glycosides (2.5%), alkaloids (3.3%), steroids (1.1%), terpenoids (6.6%), phenols (8.8%), flavonoids (17.7%) and the absence of hydrogen cyanide. This study is useful in pharmacognostic standardization of this plant. The parameters laid down will be useful and suitable for compilation of a monograph and help in identifying this plant in its crude form and prevent it from adulteration and ensure its therapeutic efficacy. Key words: Fadogia cienkowskii, pharmacognostic, phytochemical, physicochemical, macroscopic, microscopic, chemomicroscopic. &nbsp