Pharmacognostical studies of the Unani drug Kamala [Mallotous philippinensis MuelL-Arg

ABSTRACT

In the present paper an attempt has been made to find out, botanical, physico-chemical and phytochemical characteristics of the powdery covering of ripe fruits obtained from Kamala [Mallotus philippinensis Muell.-Arg.]. The important parameters are studied macro-microscopically characters, pH values, total ash, acid insoluble ash, water insoluble ash, sulphated ash, qualitative ash, analysis for inorganic constituents, qualitative analysis of different extractives for organic chemical constituents, successive extractive values, thin layer chromatography of different extracts and their analysis has also been performed. Detailed Phytochemical studies have been further confirmed that the main organic compound in the powder studied is [Rottlerin]. The compound has been found in dark brown rhombic crystal m.p. 203-05°C It is an important medicinal tree, which is used traditionally for the treatment of ringworm, scabies, herpes and other parasitic skin diseases. Kamala powder alone is applied over syphilitic ulcers