Phytochemical screening and reported biological activities of some medicinal plants of Gujarat region

Abstract

Phytochemicals are found at different levels in many medicinal plants and are important compounds of human diet. They produce definite physiological action on the human body. They can be used to regulate oxidation and stress-related chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases may be because possess powerful antioxidant activity. In the present study, some medicinal plants of Gujarat region (Aerva lanata, Terminalia bellirica, Terminalia chebula, Terminalia catappa, Zea mays, Tribulus terrestris and Boerhaavia diffusa) were selected for qualitative phytochemical screening and their reported biological activities. The screened plants were rich in flavonoids, tannins, steroids, cardiac glycosides and alkaloids. Out of the seven plants screened, Terminalia species were the best possessing rich source of phytochemicals and justify their traditional use. They can be therapeutically used individually or synergistically in combination with other extracts to treat any disease and disorder.