A detailed characteristic feature of pharmacognostical, physicochemical and phytochemical studies explored in <em>Emblica officinalis</em> Gaertn. (Euphorbiaceae)

Abstract

Plants have been used as a medicine even before pre historical period. Traditional medicine is still playing a vital role in curing diseases. Most of the people in developing countries meet their health care needs based on this system. Plants have been scientifically evaluated for its medicinal activities. The objective of the present study is to evaluate the pharmacognostical, physicochemical and phytochemical standardization of the fruits of Emblica officinalis Gaertn. (Euphorbiaceae). The pharmacognostical and physicochemical evaluation was performed to proper identity of the plant and to detect the adulterants. Physicochemical analysis like ash value (Total ash – 2.48% w/w, acid-insoluble ash – 1 % w/w, water soluble ash – 2.97 % w/w, sulphated ash – 9.5 % w/w), extractive value (water soluble – 8 % w/w, alcohol soluble - 18 % w/w) loss on drying (3.78 % w/w) was estimated. Phytochemical studies characterize the phytoconstituents. Evaluation of this drug ensures identity and ascertains quality and purity.