Pharmacognostical standardization of Withania coagulans Dunal.

Abstract

Pharmacognostical standardization of fruits of Withania coagulans Dunal. (Solanaceae) has been carried out in the present study. The study includes macroscopical and microscopical evaluation along with estimation of its physicochemical parameters such as ash and extractive values, preliminary phytochemical screening and fluorescence analysis. It also includes quantification of some of the active constituents such as withanolides (withaferin-A) by HPTLC, total phenolic, tannin, flavonoids and flavonols. The present study reveals standardization profile for drug like Withania coagulans, which would be of immense value in botanical identification and authentication of plant drug and may help us in preventing its adulteration. © 2010 Phcog.net.