The pharmacognostical and phytochemical analysis of Adiantum lunulatum Burm

Abstract

Objective: The aim in the current research is the evaluation of the pharmacognostic properties, like the macroscopic, microscopic, physicochemical properties, phytochemical screening and HPTLC of whole plant of Adiantum lunulatum Methods: The microscopic and macroscopic characteristics of dried samples were analyzed by standard methods, the organoleptic evaluations and physicochemical studies performed using WHO-recommended parameters. The extraction from the crude drug powder was done with various solvents like Aqueous, Chloroforms, Ethanol, Methanol, Petroleum ether with increasing polarity in a Soxhlet apparatus. The Physicochemical analysis, phytochemical analysis and HPTLC were done with methanolic extract. The phytochemical analysis was also done. Results: The microscopic features of the rachis and fronds were taken. In microscopical features of fronds pinnule showed epidermal cells elongation with wavy margins. Anomocytic stomata were present on the lower surface only. The rachis microscopy showed an adaxial groove and abaxial convex outline. Hypodermis consist of 2-3 layer of sclerenchyma followed by parenchymatous ground tissue. Mono stele located at the notch proto stele was occupied by xylem and proto xylem metaxylem occupying center showing exarch condition. In physiochemical analysis foreign matter, moisture content, extractive values, ash content and pH were also determined. The phytochemical analysis revealed that the drug contained alkaloids, glycosides, phenols, steroids, triterpenoids and sugar. Conclusions: The study will be helpful in the characterization of the crude drug. Further phytochemical research are needed to identity the active phytoconstituents of Adiantum lunulatum, this may serve as leads in the development of new pharmaceuticals.