Water Soluble Ash Research Articles

Formation and Preparation of Herbal Hair Tonic

Today, people are keenly interested in hair preparations and conditioner materials that includes shampoos, hair tonic, and conditioner formulation with herbal extracts. Hair tonic is the product which is used in styling hair. The objective of the present study involved the preparation of herbal hair tonic through the use of jojoba, tulsi, and coconut oil and its evaluation for antifungal and antibacterial activity. The final preparation of these ingredients is formulated in batches with change in concentration. Each formulation is tested for antibacterial and antifungal activity. The formulation of different concentrations was characterized for proximate analysis including moisture content, total ash, acid insoluble ash, water soluble ash, water insoluble ash, sulphated ash. It means for antifungal and antibacterial activity the formulation gives good results, the formulation having good consistency, good spread ability, homogeneity, appearance, and pH.

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.

Detailed Pharmacognostical Standardisation and Phytochemical Analysis of Whole Plant of <i>Tephrosia barber</i> — An Endemic Novel Medicinal Plant

Background: Tephrosia barberi J. R. Drumm. is a perennial herb belonging to the Fabaceae family. Aim: The present research work is focused on carrying out the pharmacognostic standardisation and primary phytochemical analysis of the whole plant of T. barberi. Methods: The morphology, microscopy, powder microscopy, quantitative analysis of leaf constants, fluorescence analysis and physio-chemical parameters were included in the pharmacognostical work for the whole plant followed WHO prescribed quality control methods. The primary phytochemical analysis is carried out for powder with different solvent extracts using standard procedure. Results: The study reveals that the microscopical character of the whole plant of T. barberi includes the presence of cork, phloem fibres, xylem vessels, starch grains, tracheids, unicellular warty trichomes, anamocytic type of stomata and prismatic type calcium oxalate crystal sheath. The total ash, acid insoluble ash, water soluble ash value, sulphated ash, and loss on drying were quantified as physiochemical parameters, which were observed by 3%, 1%, 2%, 5% and 8%, respectively, using T. barberi dry powder. Under daylight, long and short UV, extracts of the whole plant and with various reagents were seen as various fluorescent reflection shades, which showed satisfactory results. Additionally, the primary phytochemical analysis of different extracts of T. barberi showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, steroidal glycosides, polyphenols and terpenoids. Conclusion: All these findings ensured that the whole plant profile for T. barberi could be accomplished, which may provide proper identification and probable to minimise the adulteration of other plant species. Furthermore, the primary phytochemical screening study would be useful to carry out the isolation of phytoconstituents and their therapeutic potency in future.

Physicochemical and phytochemical analysis of siddha formulation thoothuvalaiyathi chooranam

Aim And Objective: This study aimed to investigate the physicochemical properties and phytochemical composition of siddha formulation thoothuvalaiyathi chooranam. Materials And Methods: Thoothuvalaiyathi Chooranam is one Of the Siddha formulation chosen from Sarabenthira vaithya muraigal kasa swasa sikichai , Page No. 153 which is indicated for Eraippu ,Kasam ,swasam, kabarogangkal. The drug prepared as per the Siddha literature. The drug is subjected to physico chemical analysis such as loss on ignition, loss on drying, water soluble ash etc and phytochemical analysis as per the PLIM guidelines. Results And Conclusion: Phytochemical analysis of this drug was done such as pH (7.10), Loss on ignition (92.10%), Acid Insoluble ash (5.10±0.100), Water soluble extractive (9.30±0.500), Alcohol soluble extractive (8.10±0.200),Loss on drying (0.90±0.500) .The results revealed the presence of various bioactive compounds, including Alkaloids, Carbohydrates, Glycosides, Saponins, Phenols, Triterpenoids, Flavanoids, Proteins and amino acids, Anthocyanin , Tannins.The results indicate the standard quality ,safety and standardization for their use.

PHARMACEUTICO-ANALYTICAL STUDY OF SHIGRUPUNARNAVADI YOGA: A POLY-HERBAL PREPARATION

Introduction: Shigrupunarnavadi yoga is explained in prayoga samuchayyam, a renowned visha chikitsa grantha (Ayurvedic toxicology book) stating in detail about keraliya visha chikitsa prayogas (traditional Kerala toxicology treatment modalities) authored by Sri Kochunni Thampuran in the context of mandali visha chikitsa (viper bite management) as an external lepa (application). All the ten ingredients in this yoga are economical and readily available. Materials and Methods: This combination of Shigrupunarnavadi yoga has drugs such as Shigru, Punarnava, Haridra, Vacha, Chandana, Patha, Ishwaramooli, Yashtimadhu, Sirisha and Gokshura. Equal drug quantities were combined and processed into kwatha choorna (coarse powder). An analytical study was then conducted following the guidelines outlined in the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Various physicochemical parameters of the kwatha choorna were analysed, including organoleptic characteristics, moisture content, total ash, acid-insoluble ash, water-soluble ash, alcohol-soluble extractive value, and water-soluble extractive value. Additionally, the pH, refractive index, total solids, specific gravity, and viscosity of the freshly prepared Shigrupunarnavadi kwatha (decoction) were assessed. Observation and Results: The phytochemical analytical study proved its efficacy for internal consumption. Conclusion: This study helped standardise Shigrupunarnavadi yoga in kwatha choorna (coarse powder) and kwatha (decoction). It also helped to analyse this particular yoga's probable mode of action when given internally.

An Ethnobotanical Survey, Pharmacognostic Profile and Phytochemical Investigation of Chrysobalanus icaco L.

The spice known as Chrysobalanus icaco L. (Chrysobalanaceae) was found near the coast of the Niger Delta in Nigeria. A survey on the ethnobotany of C. icaco seeds was conducted in Warri, Abraka, Delta State, Ezetu village, and Onitsha. Standard techniques were used to determine the pharmacognostic profile, phytochemical screening, physiochemical parameters, and elemental analysis. The findings showed that the Ezetu village people utilized the seeds traditionally for stomachache, anti-diarrhea, and post-child delivery. Histochemical analysis revealed the presence of tannins and proteins in the seed. The seed powder's physicochemical parameters are as follows: pH (1 g/100 ml distilled water) (6.00±0.00) and pH (10 g/100 ml), water-soluble ash (1.5±0.00%), alcohol soluble ash (1.0±0.00%), acid insoluble acid (0.25±0.00%), acid soluble ash (1.0±0.00%), and sulfated ash (2.0±0.00%). The seed oil's physicochemical properties were: density (0.936±0.0%), refractive index (1.491±0.00%), iodine value (15.9±0.01%), peroxide value (25.31±0.01%), acid value (29.44±0.00%), and ester value (34.75±0.21%). The elements discovered in the seed included lead, copper, nickel, chromium, cadmium, potassium, sodium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, and zinc. Phytochemicals found in the extract include reducing sugars, proteins, amino acids, fats, oils, alkaloids, tannins, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, cholesterol, steroids, terpenoids, triterpenoids, phytosterols, saponins, and cardiac glycosides. Quantitative phytochemical results include total phenolics (11.63±0.03), total flavonoids (2.35±0.06), total alkaloids (5.50±0.03), and total tannins (12.48±0.01). Consequently, it is possible to verify the authenticity of the seeds using these pharmacognostic features.

Pharmacognostic, phytochemical, and chemomicroscopic evaluation of Physalis angulata (L)

Background/Introduction: Since the start of civilization, human culture has used plants to treat illnesses. Many plant samples have been adulterated intentionally or unintentionally during processing or even misidentified during collection. This study aims at authenticating and standardizing of Physalis angulata by carrying out Pharmacognostic evaluation, HPLC and GCMS analysis. Methodology: The dried leaves of Physalis angulata was extracted with 70% ethanol. Phytochemical screening (qualitative and quantitative screening) analysis was carried out on the ethanolic leave extract using standard method, while the chemical compounds were established with HPLC-DAD and GCMS and Pharmacognostic evaluation was carried out on the powdered leave. Results and discussion: Qualitative phytochemical analysis of the leave extract reveals the presence of flavonoids, terpenes, alkaloid, tannins and saponin while carbohydrate, glycosides and resins were absent. Quantitative phytochemical screening shows alkaloid present to be 2.4±0.4% and saponin 2±1.32%. HPLC analysis reveals the presence of quercetin, rutin, catechin and ferulic acid while GCMS reveals the presence of cyclohexene, Palmitic acid, 17-Octadecynoic acid, 1,2-Benzenedicarboxylic acid and Phytol. Total Ash content is (15.23±0.43) %w/w with acid insoluble ash of (1.16 ±0.28) %w/w, water soluble ash of (8.13 ±0.32) %w/w, moisture content (5.67 ±0.14) %w/w, alcohol soluble extractive value of (5.76 ±0.40) %w/w and water-soluble extractive value of (10.96 ±0.35) %w/w. Chemomicroscopic evaluation indicate the presence of lignin, cellulose, tannins, starch, calcium oxalate, oils and protein. Microscopy, fluorescence and organoleptic analysis were also documented. Conclusion: From this study, the presence of valuable phytochemicals has been established from the plant, while HPLC and GCMS revealed the identities of these compounds. Thus, the physico chemical parameters established for Physalis angulata in this study falls within the range approved by WHO (1992) for crude plant and extract.

Physico-Chemical Properties, Phytochemical Screening and Antioxidant Potential of Polar and Non-Polar Seed Extractions of Selected Medicinal Plants of Solanaceae

The objective of this study was to investigate the various bioactive components and assess the biological activity in the seeds of five medicinal plants (Datura innoxia Miller., Solanum elaeagnifolium Cav., Solanum nigrum L., Solanum surattense Burm., and Withania coagulans (Stocks) Dunal.) in Solanaceae family. In this regard, ash values, acid-insoluble ash and water-soluble ash values, extractive values and screening of various phytochemicals (alkaloid, carbohydrate, protein, flavonoid, tannins, saponins, and fixed oil) and quantitative estimation of carbohydrate and protein of seeds of selected plants have been calculated. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging assay was used to evaluate the antioxidant potential. Captivatingly, a phytochemical screening assay affirmed the presence of saponins, terpenoids, phenolic compounds, and flavonoids in the seeds of all examined plants. The highest amounts of DPPH radical-scavenging activity were found in the aqueous extract of W. coagulans (IC50 = 65.6 µg/ml). Consequently, current findings showed all selected plants of the family Solanaceae contain highly bioactive components, which could be used for the treatment of different diseases and as a potential resource for discovering new drugs.

Quality characteristics and acrylamide content of commonly sold coffee brands in Kenyan markets

Coffee, a globally cherished beverage, has diverse nutritional and health benefits. However, the composition of the beverage varies with each cup, influenced by factors such as bean type and the addition of ingredients. Acrylamides, known to be carcinogenic and genotoxic, are found in processed coffee beans, causing concern over its consumption. This study determined the levels of acrylamides found in the commonly sold coffee brands in Kenyan markets, alongside other quality characteristics. The study was conducted in Nairobi and Kiambu Counties, where different samples of local and imported coffee brands were purposefully obtained from each sub-county. The physicochemical characterization of coffee samples including moisture content, total ash, acid insoluble ash, water-soluble ash, alkalinity of soluble ash, water-soluble matter, petroleum ether extract, and the concentration of acrylamide, Fe, Zn, P, Ca, Mg, K, Na, and caffeine were analysed at the Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Nairobi. Obtained data was analysed using statistical software R. The results showed significant differences in acrylamide concentration (F (11, 156) = 4.86, p < 0.001), calcium content (F (11, 156) = 2.74, p = 0.003), magnesium content (F (11, 156) = 2.52, p = 0.006), and caffeine concentration (F (11, 156) = 4.47, p < 0.001) among the different coffee brands. However, no significant differences were observed for the other characteristics (p > 0.05). The means of moisture content was 5.8%, total ash 5.8%, acid insoluble ash 0.4%, water soluble ash 79.5%, alkalinity of soluble ash 3.4mg/L, water soluble matter 47.9%, petroleum ether extract 13.8%, and acrylamide concentration 0.071 µg/100g. The mean of Fe was 7.822, Zn 6.954, P 40.669, Ca 65.596, Mg 117.588, K 222.956, Na 4.663, and Caffeine content was 0.0832, all in mg/100g. Differences especially in the level of acrylamide across the brands is a major concern. The study highlights the need for quality control measures in the coffee industry to ensure consistent quality and safety for consumers. This can go a long way in empowering individuals with insights into their coffee's nutritional worth and potential effects on their wellbeing, safeguarding its quality and health benefits. Key words: Coffee, Quality characteristics, Acrylamides, Coffee brands, Nutritional worth, well-being

Pharmacognostic, Physicochemical and Phytochemical analysis of Hibiscus cannabinus Leaves

The work deals with Pharmacognostic, physicochemical and preliminary phytochemical analysis of Hibiscus cannabinus L., (Malvaceae). The macroscopic and microscopic characteristics were observed namely physical constant values, ash values, and micro-chemical analysis. The presence of lignified cells, pericyclic fibers, stone cells, cuticles, calcium oxalate crystal, as seen in the powders of leaves. Physical constants like foreign organic matter, moisture content, ash content, acid-insoluble ash and water-soluble ash extractive values were determined the extracts shows presence of steroids, flavonoids, carbohydrates, alkaloid, glycosides, phenols, and tannins by phytochemical screening. The above study will highlighted characterize the pharmacognotical, physicochemical and preliminary phytochemical parameters of Hibiscus cannabinus Linn.

Comparative Physicochemical Evaluation of In-House Manufactured and Commercial samples of Traditional Unani Organo-metallic preparation “Kushta-e-Baiza-e-Murgh”

Kushta is a form of herbal-mineral preparation used in traditional systems of medicine (Unani and Ayurveda) of the Indian subcontinent for the treatment of various diseases it is claimed to be very effective in a very small dose and with quick action because of its fast-absorbing capacity. Kushta-e-Baiza-e-Murgh (KBM)is one of the renowned formulations, used by Hakims to cure various ailments. Since there is a lack of scientific work on these products regarding the point of physicochemical standardization, Kushta-e-Baiza-e-Murgh was prepared in the laboratory, and a study was conducted to evaluate it by comparing physicochemical with testifying on classical parameters of laboratory-made Kushta-e-Baiza-e-MurghKBM (L) with its commercial samples KBM (C-1) and kbm(C-2). The study of modern scientific parameters includes bulk density, tapped density, Hausners’ ratio, Carr’s index, pH values, loss in weight on drying, total ash, acid insoluble ash, water-soluble ash, extractive values in water, and 1N hydrochloric acid while in classical parameters it was tested like Finger test, fineness test, floating test, etc. Besides, the qualitative elemental analysis and quantitative estimations of major mineral elements have also been carried out in the present study.

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.

Incorporation of standardised extract of Curcuma longa Linn into phytosomes and its evaluation for in vitro Anti-inflammatory potential and Brine shrimp lethality assay

Aim: To incorporate standardized Curcuma longa Linn extract into phytosomes and evaluate for in vitro anti-inflammatory and BSL bioassay. Method: The quality of the plant material was determined by various pharmacognostic parameters. The plant material was then subjected to maceration for extraction using ethanol: water as solvent followed by Soxhlet extraction. The resulting extract was subjected to phytochemical analysis to determine the presence of plant metabolites. The drug and excipients compatibility was evaluated by FTIR study. Furthermore, using the thin film hydration approach, a new lipid-based phytosome was prepared. In vitro anti-inflammatory and brine shrimp lethality tests were performed on prepared phytosome. Results: Moisture content, total ash, acid insoluble ash, water soluble ash values, aqueous, alcohol, and petroleum ether extractive values are all found to be within limits. The phytochemical analysis validated the existence of alkaloids, tannins, resins, carbohydrates, proteins, flavonoids, and saponins. The compatibility study demonstrates the compatibility of excipients with drugs. Thin film hydration technique was employed successfully to prepare the phytosomes containing Curcuma longa linn extract. In vitro anti-inflammatory activity revealed that prepared phytosome could serve as natural based therapeutic option for anti-inflammatory potential. Brine shrimp lethality assay also confirmed the bioactivity of prepared phytosomes. Conclusion: The method used for standardization can be used to aid with plant identification and quality analysis of Curcuma longa Linn for future research. It can be inferred from the findings that phytosomes loaded with Curcuma longa Linn extract exhibited promising anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic effects.

Evaluation of the Bioactive compounds and its Functional role in the Aquatic weed Pistia stratiotes

Pistia stratiotes (L.) is an invasive aquatic weed known as water lettuce, belonging to the Araceae family. It is commonly used for its therapeutic potency against a number of ailments. This study's purpose is to analyze the pharmacognostical characteristics, screening of phytocompounds, fluorescence evaluation and scavenging activity of the leaf powder of P. stratiotes. The acid insoluble ash (3.22±0.17) was found to be less than total ash (21.85±0.19), water-soluble ash (11.18±0.05) and sulphated ash value (9.63±0.35). The hydro-ethanolic extract was fractionated with solvents of different polarity as per increasing order (hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, n-Butanol and aqueous). The moisture content of the leaf powder was 1.70±0.01 gm and the extractive value in aqueous (25.106±1.41) was quantitatively more than that of other solvents. The presence of carbohydrates, phenolic substances, alkaloids, gummy materials, tannins, flavonoids, saponins were revealed by phytochemical studies. The n-Butanol fraction of hydro-ethanolic decoction of leaf powder showed 360±0.01 mg GAE/gdry weight for TPC and 680±0.26 mg RE/g dry weight for TFC. The lowest IC50 value for DPPH was observed in n–Butanol fraction of hydro-ethanolic extract of leaf powder extract having 246.826±17.14 µg/ml, showing the highest free radical scavenging activity.

Physico-chemical Analysis of immune modulatory formulation R9 vati

Introduction: The concept of well-being has evolved to include health beyond disease absence. Rasayana refers to the nutritional essence reaching all body tissue components to nourish and replenish them. It enhances longevity, intelligence, health, youth, skin, voice, and motor and sensory strength. Rasayana herbs are used in decoctions or powder to achieve this, enhancing various dhatu (tissues) and promoting overall health. Ashwagandha, Pippali, Guduchi, and Yashtimadhu are herbs known for their anti-oxidant properties. Rasasindura, a rasashaudhi used to treat various illnesses, is a kupipakwa preparation with shuddha parada and shuddha gandhaka. These Rasaushadhi are effective in small doses and can enhance the efficacy of herbal drugs when added to formulations. Method: In this study a tablet (R9 vati) was prepared with and without rasasindura. The prepared samples were subjected to various physico chemical analysis. Observation and result: Increase in the value of Total ash, Alcohol and Water soluble extractive, uniformity of weight, Hardness, and decrease in the value of Loss on drying, Water soluble ash was observed in R9 vati prepared with rasasindura. HPTLC result shows 8 peaks in both samples of vati at Short UV, 6 peaks in both samples of vati at Long UV, and 4 peaks in both samples of vati at Post derivatization. Result of Microbial analysis shows absence of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella sp., Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in both the samples of vati.

Evaluation of Pharmacognostical and Phytochemical Studies for the Development of Quality Control Parameters for Stem Bark of Ximenia americana Linn. (Olacaceae)

Abstract Background: Plants are extremely useful to humankind as medicine, and hence the properties of medicinal plants have to be scientifically evaluated. Aim: The aim of this study is to establish pharmacognostical and phytochemical parameters for stem bark of Ximenia americana Linn. (Olacaceae). Materials and Methods: Macroscopical, microscopical evaluation, powder microscopical studies, quantitative microscopy, physicochemical evaluation, fluorescence analysis, analysis of inorganic elements, and determination of heavy metal contamination were performed as per the World Health Organization guidelines and standard methods. To evaluate various phytoconstituents, phytochemical investigations such as preliminary phytochemical screening, high-performance thin-layer chromatography, and high-performance liquid chromatography were performed. Results: Microscopical studies showed the presence of thick cortex, periderm cells, phloem parenchyma, phloem fibers, sieve elements, prismatic and granular calcium oxalate crystals, and resinous cells. The length and width of fibers, stone cells, and diameter of starch grains were measured. Physicochemical evaluation like ash values has shown total ash – 8.01% ± 0.02% w/w, acid-insoluble ash – 1.53% ± 0.02% w/w, water-soluble ash – 1.54% ± 0.01% w/w, sulfated ash – 12.02% ± 0.07% w/w, water-soluble hot extraction – 26.48 ± 0.02% w/w, cold maceration – 11.76% ± 0.04% w/w, alcohol soluble – 15.69% ± 0.03%w/w, ether soluble – 2.06% ± 0.03% w/w, and loss on drying – 4.88% ± 0.01% w/w. Conclusion: Pharmacognostical study on the stem bark of Ximenia americana may be reported as first. The results of pharmacognostical and phytochemical studies will be helpful for authentication and provide quality control parameters for the stem bark of this plant.

Pharmacognostic standardization and HPTLC fingerprinting analysis of Sahacharadi Kashayam: a classical ayurvedic polyherbal formulation

Multiherbal compositions are widely practiced in ayurvedic medical system, and ka??yam (decoction) is one such dose. Sahacharadi Kashayam is a traditional ayurvedic polyherbal medicine recommended by ayurvedic doctors for chronic and acute back pains, lower limb disorders, and conditions that mainly affect the nutrient level in the blood and the bone. The aim of this study was to develop pharmacognostic parameters for the standardization and quality evaluation of the Sahacharadi Kashayam. In-house polyherbal formulation was prepared as per the previously prescribed method, and physicochemical parameters were evaluated as per standard protocol and showed loss on drying at 99.31%, total ash content at 4.911 ± 0.120%, water-soluble ash at 3.022, and acid-insoluble ash at 0.489. Total phenolic content was estimated with FC reagent and expressed as gallic acid equivalent (9.95 + 0.004 mg/g). High-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) fingerprint profiling was obtained, and the quantity of total tannins was estimated as tannic acid equivalent using HPLC (0.47%). The results obtained from the study could be utilized as a reference for the quality control and quality assurance of Sahacharadi Kashayam.

Pharmaceutical Analysis and Evaluation of In-vitro Antibacterial Activity of Gomutra Ghana: A Concentrated and Solidified Form of Cow’s Urine

Introduction: Cow’s urine has been described as a highly effective animal-derived substance. Its therapeutic and pharmacological actions make it effective in the treatment of a variety of disorders. One of its notable properties is its antibacterial action, where the drug’s ability to target and inhibit the growth of bacteria. However, due to the pungent odour and taste of cow’s urine, it is difficult to consume in its natural form. Additionally, the collection of fresh cow’s urine can be challenging, especially in urban areas where access to cows may be limited. So, it is important to modify it into a dosage form, like Gomutra Ghana, which improves palatability and shelf life. Aim: To study the pharmaceutical development, quality control assessment, and in-vitro antibacterial activity evaluation of Gomutra Ghana. Materials and Methods: The pharmaceutical and analytical studies were carried out in Mahatma Gandhi Ayurved College Hospital and Research Centre and Dattatraya Ayurved Pharmacy, Salod (H), Wardha, Maharashtra, India. The in-vitro (antibacterial) study was carried out in JNMC, Sawangi (M), Wardha, Maharashtra, India, from April 2022 to August 2023. The in-vitro antibacterial study of cow’s urine and Gomutra Ghana was performed on five bacterial strains. Fresh cow’s urine was collected from a goshala (cowshed), and Gomutra Ghana was prepared in three batches by boiling the cow’s urine to a thicker consistency, then sun-drying it, followed by drying in an electric dryer. The final product was stored in a clean, sealed glass jars. Analytical parameters like pH, loss on drying at 105ºC, total ash, water-soluble ash, acid-insoluble ash, water-soluble extractives, alcohol-soluble extractives, and microbial contamination were studied. The in-vitro antibacterial activity was evaluated using the agar disc diffusion method at concentrations of 5 μL, 10 μL, and 15 μL, with results compared to those of a broad-spectrum and commonly used antibiotic, ciprofloxacin (5 μg). Statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27.0, employing Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to compare three groups (Ciprofloxacin, cow’s urine, and Gomutra Ghana) at all three concentrations. A significance level was set with a p-value of <0.05 for the antibacterial study. Results: High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) showed a peak from cow’s urine and Gomutra Ghana, with maximum heights of 500.1 and 450.4, which were nearly the same, so they may contain similar constituents. An extra peak was observed in Gomutra Ghana, suggesting the presence of additional compounds formed during its preparation. Gomutra Ghana extract showed the highest zone of inhibition against Escherichia coli. Conclusion: Gomutra Ghana showed antibacterial properties, which warrant further exploration in humans for safety and efficacy in humans.

Comparative Phyto and Physicochemical Parameters of the Therapeutic Plant Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels in Jaffna District

Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels (Myrtaceae) is an evergreen tree, grown widely in Sri Lanka. It is regularly recognized as jambolan, black plum, and jamun. It is an extensively used therapeutic herbal in the treatment of innumerable illnesses, particularly in Diabetes mellitus in traditional medicine. The goal of the research was to compare the phytochemical and physicochemical properties between the different parts of jambolana tree which is naturally found in Sri Lanka. Proximate estimation of physicochemical properties of dried matured different parts as bark, leaves, fruits, and seeds of the Syzygium cumini havebeen done in the current study rendering to the standard protocols recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Association of Analytical Chemist (AOAC). This study includes electrical conductivity value, moisture content, fat content, and different ash contents analysis. It was found that the leaves had the highest electrical conductivity (16.67±1.53) and the bark had the lowest electrical conductivity (2.44±0.03). The moisture content of the bark was lower (11.30±0.44) in comparison tothat of the seeds (16.34±0.43). Furthermore, the bark had the highest fat content (1.02±0.03) and acid insoluble ash (2.65±0.89), when compared to the seeds (0.65±0.01) and leaves (1.00±0.88) respectively. The seeds had the highest pH (5.39±0.08); total ash (2.18±0.06) and water-soluble ash (5.25±0.55), while the fruits had the highest sulphated ash (1.99±0.55). Qualitative inspection revealed that hot ethanolic seed extracts contained high levels of flavonoids, tannins, phenols, glycosides, alkaloids, terpenoids and quinones, in addition to other parts, which also had high levels of alkaloid content (81.06 mg/g). The current study will contribute useful data in the precise documentation and validation of various parts of S. cumini and may aid in removing contaminants in the preparation of nutraceuticals or medicine.
 Keywords: Medicinal Plant, Parts, Parameters, Physicochemical, Phytochemical, Syzygium cumini