Pharmacognostical studies on Cissus quadrangularis L. variant I and II
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Pharmacognostical studies on Cissus quadrangularis L. variant I & II
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Original source:
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Anoop Austin, R. Kannan, M. Jegadeesan
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Pharmacognostical studies on Cissus quadrangularis L. variant I & II
Year: 2004
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Cissus quadrangularis L. is a medicinal shrub mainly found in India, known for its therapeutic applications in treating various ailments such as indigestion, dyspepsia, and bone fractures. This species exhibits three morphological variants, with the most commonly observed being the square-stemmed (variant I) and round-stemmed (variant II). Both variants are rich in essential nutrients and have been subject to pharmacological studies. However, limited research has focused on the pharmacognostical differences between these variants and the seasonal variations in their phytochemical constituents. This study aims to fill that gap by examining the pharmacognostical characteristics of these two variants during different growth phases.
Phytochemical Variations and Microscopy Findings
A key finding of the study highlights the distinct phytochemical profiles and anatomical characteristics of Cissus quadrangularis variants I and II. While both variants possess similar structural anatomy, such as the presence of a vascular bundle and mucilage cells, significant differences were noted in their chemical compositions and quantitative microscopical values. Variant I exhibited higher levels of calcium, ascorbic acid, and other phytochemicals, particularly during the flowering season, while qualitative analyses showed that certain compounds like carbohydrates were present only in variant I. Furthermore, chromatography analyses revealed differing amino acid compositions and variations in alkaloid, saponin, and terpenoid bands, underscoring the importance of phytochemical profiling in understanding these medicinal variants.
Conclusion
This study demonstrates the pharmacognostical variations between the two variants of Cissus quadrangularis, emphasizing not only their morphological distinctions but also their diverse chemical constituents influenced by growth seasons. The findings enhance our understanding of the therapeutic potential of these plants, providing valuable insights for their application in traditional medicine. By detailing the anatomy and phytochemistry of these variants, the research contributes to the broader field of pharmacognosy and highlights the necessity for careful identification and analysis of medicinal plants to optimize their use in health care.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What are the therapeutic uses of Cissus quadrangularis L. variants?
Cissus quadrangularis L. variants are used for various ailments such as indigestion, dyspepsia, bone fractures, diarrhea, and fistula in traditional medicine.
What types of variants are found in Cissus quadrangularis?
Cissus quadrangularis exhibits three morphological variants: square-stemmed (variant I), round-stemmed (variant II), and flat-stemmed (variant III). The square-stemmed and round-stemmed varieties are the most commonly available.
What are the key findings in pharmacognostical studies on the variants?
Pharmacognostical studies revealed variations in physiochemical, microscopical, and phytochemical characteristics between the variants, as well as seasonal changes in certain constituents like calcium and ascorbic acid.
How were the pharmacognostical studies conducted on the variants?
The aerial parts of the variants were collected during flowering and vegetative seasons, dried, powdered, and subjected to various analyses, including microscopic examination and qualitative/quantitative phytochemical assessments.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Pharmacognostical studies on Cissus quadrangularis L. variant I and II”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Water:
Water is a crucial solvent in pharmacognostical studies, playing a key role in extracting phytochemical compounds from medicinal plants. Its properties facilitate the isolation of active ingredients necessary for understanding the therapeutic potential of plants like Cissus quadrangularis. Water's presence influences various chemical analyses and affects extract yields and solubility.
2) Pharmacognostical:
Pharmacognostical refers to the study of medicinal drugs derived from natural sources, particularly plants. This field includes the examination of plant morphology, anatomy, chemical composition, and their potential therapeutic uses. In the context of Cissus quadrangularis, pharmacognostical studies help differentiate between variants and assess their medicinal efficacy based on morphological and chemical properties.
3) Phytochemical:
Phytochemical encompasses the chemical compounds produced by plants, which play pivotal roles in their biological function and medicinal properties. In the study of Cissus quadrangularis, phytochemical analyses are crucial for identifying constituents like ascorbic acid and steroids, aiding in understanding their therapeutic benefits, potential toxicity, and variations among plant variants.
4) Medicine:
Medicine refers to the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases using various therapies, including herbal remedies. The investigation of Cissus quadrangularis within the framework of traditional medicine highlights its historical and contemporary applications for ailments such as dyspepsia and fractures, underscoring the importance of natural products in health care.
5) Science (Scientific):
Science signifies a systematic enterprise that builds and organizes knowledge through observation and experimentation. Within pharmacognosy and phytochemistry, scientific methods are employed to validate the medicinal properties of plants like Cissus quadrangularis, ensuring that findings regarding their efficacy and safety are based on empirical evidence and rigorous analysis.
6) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological pertains to the study of the actions and effects of drugs on biological systems. Investigating pharmacological properties of Cissus quadrangularis variants reveals their therapeutic potential, including effects on digestion and bone health, thereby forming a basis for clinical applications and contributing to our understanding of natural substances in pharmacotherapy.
7) Discussion:
Discussion is a critical component of scientific research that interprets findings, places them in context, and explores their implications. In the study of Cissus quadrangularis, discussions would address observed variations in phytochemical constituents and suggest potential clinical uses, while also comparing results with existing literature to guide future research directions.
8) Substance:
Substance refers to the specific chemical entities or materials, such as active compounds found in medicinal plants. In Cissus quadrangularis, substances like calcium and ascorbic acid are evaluated for their health benefits. Identifying and quantifying these substances is vital for establishing the plant's pharmacological properties and therapeutic efficacy.
9) Siddha (Siddhā):
Siddha is a traditional system of medicine practiced in Southern India, emphasizing holistic health and herbal remedies. The study of Cissus quadrangularis within Siddha medicine highlights its historical importance and therapeutic applications, showcasing how ancient practices can contribute to contemporary pharmacognosy and the understanding of medicinal plants.
10) Pearl:
Pearl refers to specialized structures, like pearl glands, that are sometimes noted in plant anatomy. Although not observed in the studied specimens of Cissus quadrangularis, understanding such structures can provide insights into the plant's physiological traits and potential adaptive strategies, enhancing knowledge within pharmacognostical examinations and plant biology.
11) Drug:
Drug denotes any substance used for medical purposes, including those derived from plants. The classification of Cissus quadrangularis as a potential drug showcases its significance in therapeutic practices. Understanding its pharmacognostical properties informs drug development processes, highlighting the potential applications of herbal products in modern medicine.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Pharmacognostical studies on Cissus quadrangularis L. variant I and II’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Cissus quadrangularis, Seasonal change, Pharmacological activities, Pharmacognostical Studies, Vascular bundle, Anatomical characters, Voucher specimen, Qualitative phytochemical analysis, Microscopic studies, Morphological character, Chemical reagents, Medicinal plant garden, Calcium oxalate crystal, Phytochemical constituent.