Comparative phytochemical study of stem bark versus small branches of Anthocephalus cadamba using high performance thin layer chromatography

Abstract

Objective: To compare the phyto-constituents present in the stem bark and small branches of Anthocephalus cadamba on the basis of high performance thin layer chromatography in order to evaluate whether the small branches of this plant may be substituted with the stem Bark. rnMethods: CAMAG HPTLC system equipped with semi-automatic applicator Linomat-IV and win CATS 1.4.2 software was used. n-Hexane, ethyl acetate and ethanol extracts of the stem bark and small braches were developed in suitable mobile phase using standard procedures and visualized in UV 254 and 366 nm and in white light after derivatization with in anisaldehyde-sulphuric acid reagent. rnResults: The HPTLC fingerprinting of the n-hexane, ethyl acetate and ethanol extracts of stem bark and small branches showed almost similar phytochemical profile. rnConclusion: HPTLC fingerprint profile of stem bark and small branches are found almost similar, therefore small branches may be used in place of stem bark and vice-versa after comparison and confirmation of same for pharmacological activities. The method can also be used for identification of different Anthocephalus cadamba species and adulterants.