Pharmacognostical study of medicinal plants of Western Ghats: Chlorophytum kolhapurens and Chlorophytum bharuchae

Abstract

The tuberous roots of Chlorophytum borivilianum is widely used by the folk people in the treatment of variety of diseases and as a galactogogue and aphrodisiac. Commonly known as ‘Safed musli’. The tuberous roots of other species such as Aspargus and Orchids are sometimes also called as safed musli, leading to confusion. In order to ensure correct botanical standardization, the detailed pharmacognostic study was carried out in present study on the other species of Chlorophytum viz. Chlorophytum kolhapurens and Chlorophytum bharuchae. Macroscopy and microscopy, physicochemical analysis, preliminary phytochemical screening and other WHO recommended parameters for standardization were performed. Physicochemical tests like moisture content, ash value, extractive values and phytochemical screening showed presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, proteins and saponins gives supplement information concerning its identification. Chromatographic analysis (TLC) confirms the presence of saponins which is a remarkable identification. The microscopic constants, and other physicochemical examinations of Chlorophytum species will be useful in standardization, hence would be of immense value in authentication of plant.