Pharmacognostic evaluation and development of quality control parameters for Berg-e-Bed-Sada (leaf of Salix alba L.)

Abstract

In the Ayurvedic, Siddha and Unani (ASU) systems of medicine, Salix alba L. is used as a remedy for a number of illnesses like rheumatic inflammation, painful muscles, fever, diarrhea, jaundice, gout, leucoderma (vitiligo), jaundice, etc. The current study revealed macro-, micromorphology, powder microscopy, physicochemical, high-performance thin layer chromatography and quality control factors studies to authenticate and standardize the leaf of S. alba. The microscopic analysis of powder drug showed various identification characters such as trichomes, druses of calcium oxalate crystals, crystal fibers, etc. Whereas, different physicochemical parameters like moisture content, total ash, acid-insoluble ash, water-soluble ash, alcohol extractive, and water extractive were also standardized within permitted limits. Likewise, all quality control factors, including heavy metals, microbiological load, aflatoxins, and pesticide residue were determined to be within acceptable ranges, evidencing that the use of Salix alba leaf is safe and lacks of dangerous toxins. The purposeful and unintentional use of adulterants and substitutes are regular malpractices in the trade of herbal raw materials. As a result, this study helps to fix the standards for S. alba leaf, which can help in preventing drug adulteration, substitution, incorrect identification, and authentication.