Exploring the medicinal potential of saraca asoca (roxb.) de wilde

a comprehensive study on phytochemical analysis, antibacterial activity, and antioxidant properties

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Exploring the medicinal potential of saraca asoca (roxb.) de wilde
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Subtitle: a comprehensive study on phytochemical analysis, antibacterial activity, and antioxidant properties

Original source:

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Author:

Dr. Ajay Pratap Chauhan and Dr. Smriti Sajwan


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Exploring the medicinal potential of saraca asoca (roxb.) de wilde

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20243-31216


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The study examines the medicinal potential of Saraca asoca (Roxb.) De Wilde, a plant species recognized for its significance in traditional medicine and now categorized as globally vulnerable by the IUCN. This small evergreen tree, predominantly found in India's evergreen forests, bears the common names 'Asoka,' 'Sita Asoka,' and 'Haempushpam.' The current research focuses on conducting a comprehensive phytochemical analysis, assessing the antibacterial activity, and exploring the antioxidant properties of methanol extracts derived from the plant's bark, flowers, and leaves. The findings of this study aim to enhance understanding and appreciation of the plant’s therapeutic applications, reinforcing its role in healthcare-related drug development.

Phytochemical Analysis

The phytochemical analysis of Saraca asoca revealed the presence of various bioactive compounds in its different parts—bark, flowers, and leaves. Utilizing standard methodologies, the study identified secondary metabolites, including flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, phenols, and tannins. Notably, methanol extraction proved to be the most effective for these compounds, highlighting the plant's rich chemical profile. The results showed variability in the presence of these metabolites across the different parts, with some constituents found exclusively in certain extracts. The detection of steroids, previously reported absent from S. asoca, was particularly surprising, underscoring the need for further investigation into this plant's phytochemistry.

Antibacterial Activity

Antibacterial studies evaluated the effectiveness of extracts from S. asoca against a range of bacteria, including gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and gram-negative strains (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumoniae). The disc diffusion method was employed to measure antibacterial activity, with results indicating that extracts exhibited significant antimicrobial properties. The rankings of antibacterial efficacy varied among the extracts, with flower extracts generally demonstrating the highest effectiveness against gram-negative bacteria, while bark extracts were more potent against gram-positive bacteria. These findings align with previous research and affirm the antibacterial potential of S. asoca, contributing valuable insights to the search for natural antibiotics.

Antioxidant Properties

The antioxidant potential of the bark extract of Saraca asoca was assessed using the DPPH assay method, which measures the scavenging activity of free radicals. This study found that while the bark extract showed a notable capacity to reduce DPPH radicals, ascorbic acid exhibited superior scavenging abilities across all concentrations tested. The results indicated a percentage of radical scavenging activity of 16.86% for the bark extract at a concentration of 200 μg/μL-1, growing to 78.12% at 700 μg/μL-1. These results suggest that the bark extract has significant antioxidant properties, further supporting the plant's medicinal uses and highlighting its potential in combating oxidative stress-related conditions.

Conclusion

In summary, Saraca asoca presents substantial medicinal importance, as demonstrated through comprehensive analysis regarding its phytochemical composition, antibacterial properties, and antioxidant capabilities. The study identifies key secondary metabolites and affirms the plant's efficacy against a range of bacterial strains, along with significant antioxidant activity. These insights embellish the understanding of S. asoca as a promising candidate for various pharmaceutical applications. Further research is warranted to explore and fully harness the therapeutic potential of Saraca asoca in drug development, thereby enriching the repertoire of natural remedies available in modern healthcare.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is Saraca asoca and its significance?

Saraca asoca, a globally vulnerable species in India, has significant medicinal properties, often used in traditional remedies for various ailments, particularly gynecological disorders.

What parts of Saraca asoca were studied for medicinal properties?

The study focused on the bark, flowers, and leaves of Saraca asoca to explore their phytochemical composition, antibacterial activity, and antioxidant properties.

What methods were used for phytochemical analysis?

Phytochemical analysis involved qualitative and quantitative tests for various secondary metabolites, utilizing methanol, ethanol, and aqueous extraction techniques.

How effective are Saraca asoca extracts against bacteria?

The extracts exhibited antibacterial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, with varying efficacy depending on the plant part used.

What antioxidant properties were found in Saraca asoca?

The antioxidant potential, evaluated using the DPPH assay, revealed significant radical scavenging activity, especially in the bark extract.

What is the importance of this research on Saraca asoca?

This research highlights the pharmaceutical potential of Saraca asoca, supporting its application in drug development and emphasizing the need for further studies.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Exploring the medicinal potential of saraca asoca (roxb.) de wilde”. 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) Activity:
Activity refers to the functional capacity of a substance to produce a certain biological effect. In this study, it pertains to the antibacterial and antioxidant capacities of Saraca asoca extracts, demonstrating their potential for use in drug development and therapeutic applications. The measurement and significance of these activities are critical for understanding the medicinal value of the plant.

2) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Anti-bacterial relates to the general properties of substances that inhibit bacterial growth, which is a primary focus of this study. The evaluation of Saraca asoca extracts against various bacteria aims to identify natural alternatives for combating infections, reflecting a significant area of pharmaceutical research.

3) Saraca asoca:
Saraca asoca is a species of evergreen tree native to India, recognized for its medicinal properties. The focus of the study, its various parts such as bark, leaves, and flowers are analyzed for phytochemicals and biological activities, highlighting the importance of this plant in traditional medicine and pharmacological research.

4) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals represent various bioactive compounds derived from plants, which have significant health benefits. The identification of these compounds within Saraca asoca through this study reinforces the concept of plants as reservoirs for pharmaceutical agents, linking traditional knowledge with modern scientific inquiry.

5) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are specific types of phytochemicals that play a significant role in plant defense and possess various health benefits. Their analysis in the context of Saraca asoca allows for a better understanding of the plant’s therapeutic potentials, justifying traditional uses and encouraging further biomedical research.

6) Study (Studying):
The study encompasses comprehensive research on Saraca asoca, addressing phytochemical analysis and assessing antibacterial and antioxidant activities. This work builds upon previous findings, reinforcing the plant's relevance while promoting further inquiry into its medicinal properties and potential pharmaceutical applications.

7) Chauhan:
Chauhan, as the corresponding author of the study, plays a significant role in leading research on Saraca asoca. His affiliation with Uttarakhand Ayurved University emphasizes his expertise in traditional herbal medicine and his contribution to advancing knowledge in pharmacological sciences related to medicinal plants.

8) Nayak:
Nayak is cited in the context of previous research and findings regarding Saraca asoca and its medicinal properties. Referring to works by Nayak enriches the current study by providing a foundation built on established knowledge, highlighting the layered understanding of the plant’s phytochemistry and biological activity.

9) Species:
Species denotes a group of organisms sharing common characteristics. Saraca asoca is categorized as a species of particular medicinal interest, with studies focused on its health applications reflecting broader themes of biodiversity and conservation of plants with therapeutic potential.

10) India:
India, as the geographical origin of Saraca asoca, plays a crucial role in the context of this study. The country’s rich biodiversity and tradition of herbal medicine place it at the forefront of research in medicinal plants, with Saraca asoca exemplifying the integration of traditional and contemporary medicinal practices.

11) Pradhan:
Pradhan is another researcher referenced in the study, contributing to the collective understanding of phytochemicals in Saraca asoca. His previous work adds credibility and context to the findings of the current study, revealing the synergy of researchers in highlighting traditional knowledge and its implications for modern science.

12) Drug:
Drugs encompass compounds used for therapeutic purposes, and the study’s evaluation of Saraca asoca aims to identify potential sources of new pharmacological agents. The findings support the pursuit of compound discovery from medicinal plants, extending the possibilities for novel drug development in the pharmaceutical industry.

13) Dravyaguna (Dravya-guna):
Dravyaguna, the branch of Ayurvedic medicine focusing on the properties and functions of medicinal plants, is central to the study. This field provides the framework for understanding traditional uses of Saraca asoca while promoting a scientific approach to evaluating its pharmacological benefits.

14) Forest:
Singular 'forest' highlights the specific ecosystems where Saraca asoca is found and showcases the relationship between environment and plant medicinal properties. It underscores the need for environmental considerations in pharmaceutical research and conservation efforts for sustaining the biodiversity that supports medicinal plants.

15) Aureus:
Aureus, specifically referencing Staphylococcus aureus, is a gram-positive bacterium used as a standard in evaluating antibacterial properties of Saraca asoca extracts. This organism's significance in clinical infections underlines the necessity for discovering effective treatments derived from natural sources to combat antibiotic resistance.

16) Campu:
While 'Campu' may refer to the specific botanical context within the study, it could also indicate a location related to the research. Enhanced understanding of plant habitats is critical for studying their properties, advocating for robust conservation strategies vital for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem health.

17) Tree:
Tree signifies the growth form of Saraca asoca, an evergreen tree known for its height and medicinal applications. The physiological characteristics of the tree are integral to understanding its ecological role and the therapeutic potential that arises from its various biological components.

18) Surface:
Surface may refer to the physical characteristics of Saraca asoca's bark, which is part of its phytochemical analysis. The texture and characteristics of plant materials often influence their extraction of active compounds, affecting the efficacy of the medicinal properties observed in the study.

19) Ashoka (Asoka):
Asoka is the vernacular name for Saraca asoca in many Indian languages, reflecting its deep-rooted significance in culture and traditional medicine. Understanding its local names furthers the context of its use, situating the scientific inquiry within a broader sociocultural framework.

20) Medium:
Medium in this context refers to the nutrient agar used in antibacterial tests. The choice of medium is crucial for accurately assessing the growth and inhibition of bacterial strains, providing a reliable method for evaluating the antibacterial activity of Saraca asoca extracts.

21) Water:
Water is essential for the preparation of extracts from Saraca asoca. The quality of water used in extraction processes can influence the efficacy of the final product, making it a critical factor in assessing the plant’s therapeutic potential through proper phytochemical extraction methods.

22) Ulcer:
Ulcer refers to a medical condition that Saraca asoca has been associated with treating, highlighting its therapeutic potential. The evaluation of the plant’s parts for their biological activity may contribute to developing new treatments for ulcers, thereby expanding its medical applications.

23) Rat:
Rats often serve as model organisms in pharmacological studies, especially for testing the effects of medicinal plants. The use of albino rats in previous research on Saraca asoca validates the study's findings, contributing to the understanding of its therapeutic effects and potential applications in human medicine.

24) Family:
Family in biological taxonomy refers to the broader category that includes Saraca asoca within its belonging group. Recognizing its classification helps in understanding related species and broadening the scope of studies on related plants that may have similar medicinal uses.

25) Soil:
Soil represents the environmental foundation for the growth of Saraca asoca and plays a vital role in the expression of its phytochemical profile. Studying the effects of soil on the medicinal properties of plants enhances understanding of their cultivation needs and conservation implications.

26) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the section where results are interpreted and contextualized within the broader scientific literature. This part of the research highlights the implications of the findings, facilitating a dialogue between traditional knowledge and contemporary pharmaceutical science, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the plant’s applications.

27) Knowledge:
Knowledge encompasses the understanding of medicinal plants, gained through both traditional practices and modern research. The study of Saraca asoca contributes to the collective knowledge on pharmacology, reinforcing the importance of integrating diverse sources of information in developing effective therapeutic interventions.

28) Container:
Container refers to the air-tight vessels used to store the dried plant materials of Saraca asoca after extraction. Proper storage is essential to maintain the integrity and potency of the extracts, crucial for ensuring reliable results in subsequent biological evaluations and research.

29) Himalaya (Hima-alaya):
Himalaya is another spelling of the specific mountain range where Saraca asoca is found. Its geographic significance emphasizes the plant's adaptation to specific ecological niches, shedding light on how the environmental factors of the Himalayan region contribute to the unique properties of medicinal herbs.

30) Bleeding:
Bleeding is referenced in the context of therapeutic applications of Saraca asoca. The plant has been associated with treating gynecological disorders, which often include symptoms of bleeding, demonstrating its potential as a remedy in traditional medicine and warranting further scientific investigation.

31) Samhita:
Samhita refers to ancient texts that document the medicinal practices in Ayurveda. These texts, such as the Charka Samhita, include references to Saraca asoca, interweaving historical perspectives with modern scientific inquiries, thereby providing a holistic view of the plant’s significance in health care.

32) Smriti (Smrti):
Smriti denotes the category of traditional texts in Hindu philosophy, including historical accounts of herbal knowledge. Integrating smriti references situates Saraca asoca within a long tradition of medicinal plant use, reinforcing its importance and relevance in both cultural and scientific contexts.

33) Shukla (Sukla):
Shukla references a researcher who has contributed insights into the medicinal uses of Saraca asoca. The mention of individuals in the study highlights a collaborative effort in pharmacological research, fostering a network of knowledge that supports the advancement of herbal medicine.

34) Shashthi (Sasthi, Sashthi):
Sasthi refers to a specific traditional practice related to the use of Saraca asoca flowers during the 'ashoka-sasthi' festival. This cultural significance underlines the plant's role within societal practices, integrating traditional knowledge into the broader framework of its scientific examination and potential therapeutic applications.

35) Cancer:
Cancer is a critical area of research where Saraca asoca shows promise as a potential therapeutic agent. The study's discovery of bioactive compounds with anticancer properties emphasizes the ongoing search for natural solutions within traditionally used plants, contributing significantly to cancer research and treatment strategies.

36) Animal:
Animal refers to the biological context within which pharmacological studies are often conducted. The use of animals like rats in the research on Saraca asoca provides insights into the plant's efficacy and safety, essential steps in validating its potential therapeutic applications for human use.

37) Varman (Varma, Varmam):
Varma indicates another researcher referenced in the study, contributing to the framework of existing knowledge on Saraca asoca. The inclusion of multiple authors reflects collaborative efforts in enhancing the understanding and practical applications of medicinal plants in contemporary research.

38) Field:
Field refers to the area of study related to herbal medicine, pharmacology, and phytochemistry. The exploration of Saraca asoca falls within this field, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in understanding the complexities of medicinal plant research and its real-world applications.

39) Blood:
Blood in this context may refer to the therapeutic implications of Saraca asoca in managing conditions affecting the blood system. The plant’s potential benefits in treating disorders emphasize the need for rigorous research into its medicinal properties and applications in hematological health.

40) Saha (Shaha):
Saha refers to a researcher referenced within the context of this study, contributing to the collective understanding of the phytochemical properties of Saraca asoca. The inclusion of previous researchers strengthens the basis of the current work, promoting a comprehensive exploration of the plant's potential.

41) Sita (Shita):
Sita can refer to the traditional name associated with Saraca asoca, connecting the plant to cultural narratives and practices in India. Understanding local nomenclature enriches the context within which the plant is examined, blending traditional uses with modern scientific methodologies.

42) Line:
Line emphasizes continuity or categorization within a scientific context. In this study, it suggests the essential relationship among research findings, traditional knowledge, and the ongoing exploration of the medicinal properties of Saraca asoca, underscoring interconnectedness in botanical research.

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Exploring the medicinal potential of saraca asoca (roxb.) de wilde’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Saraca asoca, Therapeutic agent, Herbal medicine, Medicinal importance, Ayurvedic treatise, Antibacterial activity, Antioxidant properties, Qualitative analysis, Phytochemical analysis, Anticancer activity, Quantitative analysis, DPPH assay, Radical Scavenging Activity, Secondary metabolite, Analgesic activities, Gram positive bacteria, Gram negative bacteria, CNS depressant activity, Methanol extract, Charka Samhita, Ayurved University, Pharmaceutical application, Phytoconstituent, Bioactive natural compounds.

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