Pharmacognostical standardization of bark of Thuja orientalis Linn.

Abstract

>Thuja orientalis is a common ornamental evergreen tree that is originally native to Northwest China belonging to family Cupressaceae. The present study highlights the botanical as well as phytochemical studies including parameters such as macroscopic, microscopic characters, physiochemical evaluation and preliminary phytochemical studies of the bark. These observations will help in the botanical identification and standardization of the drug in the crude form and distinguish the drug from adulterants. These studies will be helpful in developing standards for quality, purity and sample identification of the plant. Preliminary phytochemical screening of extracts revealed the presence of glycosides, flavonoids, sterols, tannins, and carotenoids. The plant has exhibited extensively biological activities including anti-epileptic, anti-inflammatory, and hair growth-promoting, antiviral, anti-allergic, antibacterial, antioxidant, and antifungal activities.