ABSTRACT
ABSTRACTThe decoctions of the Butea monosperma (Lam.) Taub., Fabaceae, Bauhinia variegata L., Fabaceae, and Ocimum gratissimum L., Lamiaceae, are traditionally used for the treatment of various types of hepatic disorder. Phytochemical studies have shown that total flavonoids from these plants were the major constituents of the picked out part of each plant. The present study was planned to investigate the hepatoprotective effect of flavonoid rich fractions of the B. monosperma, B. variegata and O. gratissimum against paracetamol induced liver damage. Flavonoid rich fractions were isolated by solvent fractionation from each plant. Each fraction was subjected to various qualitative chemical tests to findout the metabolites. Flavonoid fractions of each plant were subjected for pharmacological screening. The rats were monitored for change in liver morphology, biochemical parameters like serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase, serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase and total bilirubin for the groups receiving the flavonoid-rich fractions. All flavonoid rich fractions showed significant hepatoprotective activity. The histological studies supported the biochemical parameters. From the results of biochemical analysis and histopathological studies, it can be accomplished that in the ethyl acetate fraction of O. gratissimum showed highest hepatoprotective activity as compared to other fractions. The present study was the first evidence of flavonoid-rich fractions of each plant have a remarkable hepatoprotective effect. All fractions contain a potent hepatoprotective agent suggested to be a flavone, which may find clinical application in amelioration of paracetamol-induced liver damage.
ABSTRACT
Background: Opuntia elatio Mill is a xerophytic plant with potentially active nutrients. It is traditionally appreciated for its pharmacological properties; however, the scientific information on this plant is insufficient. Objective: The present study evaluates the antinociceptive and anti‑inflammatory action of prickly pear. Materials and Methods: Writhing and tail‑immersion tests were carried out to evaluate analgesic action, while the carrageenan‑induced paw edema and neutrophil adhesion tests were conducted in Albino wistar rats to assess anti‑inflammatory action. Results: ED50 values of the fruit juice in writhing, tail immersion, and paw edema test were 0.919, 2.77, and 9.282 ml/kg, respectively. The fruits of Opuntia produced analgesic and anti‑inflammatory action in a dose‑dependent manner. Conclusion: The results establish the folklore use of prickly pear may be due to the presence of betacyanin and/or other phenolic compounds.
ABSTRACT
The most important challenges faced by herbal formulations arise because of their lack of complete evaluation. Evaluation is necessary to ensure quality and purity of the herbal product. For evaluation of capsule containing single herb various parameters were tested. These parameters for raw material include powder characteristic study, organoleptic, physicochemical, phytochemical parameters etc., and assay of active constituent. Parameters for finished product (capsule) include uniformity of weight, pH, moisture content, disintegration time and dissolution study. HPTLC study, heavy metal analysis, microbial analysis and Nutritional value were carried out as a part of evaluation. Results indicate that Ashwagandha capsule has passed through all organoleptic and physicochemical parameters. Active constituent was present in adequate amount in the Ashwagandha capsule. Data of HPTLC finger printing indicates that extract was derived from genuine plant or parts of the plant and also capsule contain the same extract. Concentration of lead, arsenic and cadmium in capsules passed the limit of heavy metal. Mercury was absent in capsule and in their extract. Capsules have <10 cfu/gm total bacterial count. Total yeast and mould was absent in capsules. The pathogens like E. coli, Salmonella, P.aeruginosa and S.aureus were also absent in capsule.Carbohydrate, protein and cholesterol content for Ashwagadha capsule is 84.56%, 8.29% and 2.32% respectively. Data suggested that capsule and its extract were consistent with various identity, quality and purity parameters such as organoleptic characters, physico-chemical parameter, HPTLC fingerprinting, heavy metal and microbial analysis. Nutritional assessment of the each capsule indicates their dietary supplement value.
ABSTRACT
Lagenaria siceraria (Molina) standley (LS) (Family: Cucurbitaceae) is an annual herbaceous climbing plant with a long history of traditional medicinal uses in many countries, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. Since ancient times the climber has been known for its curative properties, and has been utilized for treatment of various ailments, including jaundice, diabetes, ulcer, piles, colitis, insanity, hypertension, congestive cardiac failure (CCF), and skin diseases. Its fruit pulp is used both as an emetic and purgative, and for its cooling, diuretic, antibilious, and pectoral properties. Boiled in oil this pulp is used to treat rheumatism and insomnia. A wide range of chemical compounds including sterols, terpenoids, flavonoids, and saponins have been isolated from the species. Its extracts have been found to possess various pharmacological activities. Below, we give a comprehensive review of its ethnomedical uses, chemical constituents, and pharmacological profile as a medicinal plant. Particular attention is given to its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antihyperlipidemic, diuretic, hepatoprotective, anthelmintic, and antibacterial effects so that its potential uses in pharmaceutics can be better evaluated.