Pharmacognostic and Phytochemical analysis of Ashoka (Saraca indica)
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Pharmacognostic and Phytochemical analysis of different market samples of Ashoka (Saraca indica Linn)
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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Dr H R Nataraj, Dr S K Hiremanth
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Pharmacognostic and Phytochemical analysis of different market samples of Ashoka (Saraca indica Linn)
Year: 2009
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
This study examines various market samples of Ashoka (Saraca indica Linn), a significant medicinal plant in Ayurveda, particularly known for treating gynecological disorders. Although Ashoka is listed as an endangered species by the National Medicinal Plants Board, its availability is still prevalent in markets. The investigation aimed to verify the genuineness of Ashoka bark offered commercially through thorough pharmacognostic and phytochemical evaluations. The methodology included a combination of macroscopic descriptions, microscopic examinations, and various physicochemical analyses of the bark samples collected from different markets.
Adulteration of Ashoka Bark
A key finding of the study was the prevalence of adulteration among the market samples of Ashoka. The research revealed that none of the samples tested could be conclusively identified as genuine Ashoka due to distinct differences in macroscopic and microscopic characteristics compared to the authentic species. The study identified Polyalthia longifolia Benth. as one of the common adulterants, which was distinguished by its dark brown inner bark and absence of typical rough protuberances found in Saraca indica. This indicates that there is a high level of rationality in the adulteration practices, as many adulterant species exhibit astringent tastes similar to those of genuine Ashoka.
Conclusion
The findings highlight the critical need for better quality control and authenticity testing of herbal products in the marketplace. As demonstrated, market samples of Ashoka reflected significant variations in their physical and chemical properties, suggesting widespread adulteration. The research underscores the importance of adopting rigorous pharmacognostic and phytochemical analyses to protect consumers and uphold the integrity of traditional medicinal practices. Ultimately, raising awareness regarding these adulteration practices could lead to enhanced regulation and ensure the availability of genuine therapeutic materials in Ayurveda.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the significance of Ashoka (Saraca indica Linn)?
Ashoka is a widely used medicinal plant in Ayurveda, mainly for treating gynecological disorders like menorrhagia. Its parts, particularly the bark, are utilized in various formulations such as Ashokarista.
How were the different market samples of Ashoka analyzed?
The samples were subjected to Pharmacognostic and Phytochemical analyses, including macroscopy, microscopy, organoleptic tests, physicochemical studies, and preliminary phytochemical screenings to determine their genuineness and quality.
What types of adulterants were found in Ashoka samples?
Several adulterants like Polyalthia longifolia, Bauhinia variegata, and others were identified. These contain astringent-tasting components, leading to potential confusion with genuine Ashoka due to similar taste profiles.
What were the primary findings in the microscopy analysis?
Microscopy revealed variations among market samples regarding secondary phloem, stone cells, and crystal fibers. Most samples had distinct features, indicating differing botanical sources and authenticity issues.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Pharmacognostic and Phytochemical analysis of Ashoka (Saraca indica)”. 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) Ashoka (Asoka, Asoka, Asoka, Asoka):
Ashoka (Saraca indica Linn) is a significant medicinal plant in Ayurveda, primarily used for treating gynecological disorders like menorrhagia. The bark is analyzed in the study for its pharmacognostic and phytochemical properties to ensure the authenticity and quality of the market samples available for therapeutic use.
2) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine originating from India, emphasizing balance in physical and mental health through natural substances and holistic approaches. The relevance of Ashoka in Ayurveda illustrates its medicinal applications, particularly for female health issues, which aligns with Ayurvedic principles of treating ailments with plant-based remedies.
3) Phytochemical:
Phytochemical refers to the chemical compounds obtained from plants, which are significant in the study for their therapeutic properties. The analysis of Ashoka includes phytochemical screening to identify active constituents such as tannins, saponins, and steroids that contribute to its medicinal efficacy and potential health benefits.
4) Drug:
In the context of the study, 'drug' relates to the plant's utility in traditional and modern medicine. Ashoka is evaluated to determine its efficacy, safety, and authenticity as a drug, ensuring that it meets the required standards for therapeutic applications in treatments, particularly in gynecological disorders.
5) Shri (Sri, Sri, Sr, Sr, Sr):
Shri is an honorific title in Indian culture used to denote respect or reverence, often preceding a name. In the context of this study, it reflects the title of the institution associated with the research, emphasizing its commitment to scholarly work and dedication to Ayurvedic medicine.
6) Science (Scientific):
Scientific refers to approaches, principles, and methodologies that underpin the research conducted on Ashoka. Utilizing scientific techniques ensures the reliability and validity of the findings, reinforcing the importance of rigorous study in validating traditional medicine practices and exploring the pharmacological potential of herbal drugs.
7) Water:
Water is used as a solvent in the extraction processes during the study, which investigates the solubility and concentrations of active compounds in Ashoka. The physicochemical analysis of the bark's extracts in water reveals insights into its medicinal properties, efficacy, and how best to utilize it for therapeutic purposes.
8) Dravyaguna (Dravya-guna):
Dravyaguna is a branch of Ayurveda that focuses on the study of herbal drugs and their properties. It plays a crucial role in understanding the pharmacognostic characteristics of Ashoka, emphasizing its importance in Ayurvedic practice and the rigorous examination required for ensuring the authenticity of medicinal plant sources.
9) Sharman (Sarma, Sarma, Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma, as mentioned in the references of the study, might refer to an author or researcher who contributed to the literature on Ayurvedic pharmacognosy. His work supports the foundations of quality standards and pharmacological evaluations relevant to the medicinal use of plants like Ashoka in Ayurveda.
10) Discussion:
Discussion in scientific studies is the section where results are interpreted, evaluated, and related to existing knowledge. In this study, the discussion likely analyzes findings regarding Ashoka's quality and authenticity, drawing connections between the observed data and the implications for its use in Ayurvedic medicine and pharmacology.
11) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the field dedicated to diagnosing, treating, and preventing illnesses. The study of Ashoka’s pharmacognostic and phytochemical properties connects Ayurvedic practices with contemporary medicinal applications, highlighting the significance of herbal remedies in addressing health issues, particularly within the framework of traditional Indian medicine.
12) Quality:
Quality pertains to the standards and attributes that determine the effectiveness and safety of medicinal products. In assessing Ashoka, the study aims to measure its quality through rigorous pharmacognostic tests, establishing benchmarks against which market samples can be evaluated for authenticity and therapeutic potential.
13) Habitat:
Habitat refers to the natural environment where Ashoka is found and sourced. Understanding its habitat is crucial for identifying genuine samples, enhancing conservation efforts, and promoting sustainable harvesting practices. This consideration impacts the availability and quality of the plant material used in Ayurvedic treatments.
14) Vaidya:
Vaidya is a term for a practitioner of Ayurveda, typically a physician specializing in the field of traditional Indian medicine. The reference to Vaidya emphasizes the role of trained professionals in authenticating and prescribing herbal treatments, ensuring patient safety and efficacy in the use of plants like Ashoka.
15) Madhu:
Madhu, as mentioned in various references, likely refers to a contributor or researcher associated with the study or literature on Ayurvedic pharmacognosy. This highlights the collaborative nature of research in traditional medicine, where numerous individuals contribute to a greater understanding of plants and their therapeutic applications.
16) Sugar:
Sugar, specifically in the context of phytochemical screening, may relate to the presence of carbohydrates in the extracts analyzed during the study. The identification of sugars is essential in understanding the nutritional and therapeutic effects of Ashoka, contributing to its health benefits in Ayurvedic formulations.