Qualitative and quantitative estimation phytoconstituents and antioxidant activity of Picrorhiza kurroa and terminalia arjuna

Abstract

Herbal medicines have long been a cornerstone of traditional healthcare systems, and contemporary research increasingly supports their therapeutic potential. The present study aimed to perform a comprehensive pharmacognostical, physicochemical, and phytochemical evaluation of Picrorhiza kurroa rhizomes and Terminalia arjuna bark, two widely recognized medicinal plants in Ayurveda. Morphological, microscopic, and organoleptic analyses established key diagnostic characteristics for plant identification and quality control. Physicochemical parameters including ash values, extractive values, moisture content, and microbial load were determined, confirming the purity and compliance of the crude drugs with pharmacopoeial standards. Elemental analysis using atomic absorption spectrophotometry revealed essential elements within permissible limits. Qualitative phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, phenolic compounds, tannins, and saponins in both plants. Quantitative estimations indicated that methanolic extracts consistently exhibited higher total phenolic and flavonoid content compared to other solvent extracts. Antioxidant potential assessed by DPPH and hydrogen peroxide scavenging assays demonstrated notable free radical scavenging activity, especially in methanolic extracts of Terminalia arjuna and Picrorhiza kurroa. The findings scientifically substantiate the therapeutic potential of these botanicals and provide validated baseline data for their safe incorporation into herbal and pharmaceutical formulations.