Proximate, phytochemical and invitro antioxidants analysis of phyllanthus amarus

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Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Proximate, phytochemical and invitro antioxidants analysis of phyllanthus amarus
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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Author:

J.Suguna Bai, M.Jayaraj, T.Karpagam, R. Roy Rajakumari


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Proximate, phytochemical and invitro antioxidants analysis of phyllanthus amarus

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


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Phyllanthus amarus is a medicinal plant known for its numerous health benefits, particularly its rich antioxidant properties. The plant contains various primary metabolites, such as carbohydrates and proteins, and secondary metabolites like phenolics, which contribute to its therapeutic effects. Antioxidants play a significant role in combating oxidative stress caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can lead to cellular damage. This study aimed to analyze the proximate and phytochemical composition of Phyllanthus amarus, assessing its potential as a nutraceutical due to its high antioxidant content.

Antioxidant Activity

The study highlighted the significant antioxidant activity of Phyllanthus amarus. The plant demonstrated a strong capability to scavenge free radicals, which is primarily attributed to its rich content of phenolic compounds. Using various assays, it was found that the DPPH radical scavenging activity increased with higher concentrations of the extract, showcasing an IC₅₀ value of 30μg/ml. Such antioxidant capacity suggests that this plant could serve as an effective source of natural antioxidants, potentially preventing oxidative damage linked to various health conditions.

Nutritional Composition

The quantitative analysis revealed a wealth of essential nutrients within Phyllanthus amarus. The plant contained considerable amounts of primary metabolites, including proteins (14 mg/100g), carbohydrates (22 mg/100g), and cellulose (1920 mg/100g). Furthermore, it was noted that the plant is rich in vitamins, specifically vitamin C (72 mg/100g), and minerals like iron, calcium, and phosphorous. This nutritional richness underscores the potential of Phyllanthus amarus as a valuable dietary supplement that can contribute to overall health.

Mineral Content and Health Implications

Phyllanthus amarus is also notable for its mineral content, which includes iron (12.5 mg/100g), phosphorous (266.6 mg/100g), calcium (122.2 mg/100g), magnesium (86 mg/100g), and copper (5 mg/100g). These minerals are essential for various biological functions and play a critical role in maintaining health by forming complexes that facilitate the removal of anti-nutritional factors in the body. The presence of these minerals supports the traditional use of Phyllanthus amarus in treating ailments such as kidney issues and other health concerns, including inflammation.

Conclusion

The study concludes that Phyllanthus amarus exhibits potent antioxidant effects, complemented by its high nutritional value. The presence of primary metabolites and essential minerals suggests its potential for therapeutic applications and as an herbal nutraceutical. Further research, including clinical trials, is recommended to explore its efficacy and develop cost-effective products that utilize its natural antioxidant properties, ultimately contributing to the treatment of life-threatening disorders and improving overall health outcomes.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the role of antioxidants in the body?

Antioxidants are molecules that inhibit oxidation, reducing cell damage caused by free radicals. They can help in preventing oxidative stress, which is an imbalance between reactive oxygen species and the body's ability to detoxify or repair damage.

What nutrients are abundant in Phyllanthus amarus?

Phyllanthus amarus is rich in macronutrients such as iron, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, as well as vitamins like A and C. It also contains significant amounts of primary metabolites like carbohydrates and proteins.

What phytochemicals are present in Phyllanthus amarus?

Phyllanthus amarus contains various phytochemicals, including saponins, tannins, flavonoids, and alkaloids. These compounds contribute to its medicinal properties and potential health benefits.

How effective is Phyllanthus amarus in scavenging free radicals?

The aqueous extract of Phyllanthus amarus demonstrated significant free radical scavenging activity, with an IC50 value of 30μg/ml in DPPH assays, indicating potent antioxidant properties.

What are the potential health benefits of Phyllanthus amarus?

This plant is traditionally used to treat liver disorders, jaundice, diabetes, and intestinal infections. Its rich antioxidant content may also help in managing various diseases related to oxidative stress.

What was the moisture content of Phyllanthus amarus in the study?

The study indicated that the moisture content of Phyllanthus amarus was 8.14%, which is important for assessing its quality and potential shelf life.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Proximate, phytochemical and invitro antioxidants analysis of phyllanthus amarus”. 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, particularly concerning its biological effects. In the context of antioxidative studies, it highlights the ability of a plant extract to scavenge free radicals and inhibit oxidative processes, ultimately indicating its potential therapeutic uses against various diseases.

2) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals are naturally occurring chemical compounds found in plants. These compounds often possess significant health benefits, including antioxidant properties. The study of phytochemicals focuses on their roles in disease prevention and treatment, their mechanism of action in the human body, and their potential utilization in herbal medicine.

3) Table:
In research, a table serves to organize and present data systematically, allowing for clear comparison and analysis. Tables in the context of scientific studies usually include quantitative data like concentrations of antioxidants, metabolites, or minerals, enhancing readability and facilitating quicker comprehension of research findings.

4) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are a class of phytochemicals known for their antioxidant properties. They play a critical role in combating oxidative stress in the body and are associated with numerous health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects. Their presence in plants highlights the potential for therapeutic applications.

5) Mineral:
Minerals are inorganic nutrients essential for various bodily functions, including bone health, enzyme activity, and electrolyte balance. The study identifies the mineral content in Phyllanthus amarus, underscoring the plant's nutritional value and its importance in traditional medicine for treating health conditions.

6) Study (Studying):
A study is a systematic investigation aimed at discovering new information or validating existing knowledge. In this context, the study focuses on the antioxidant properties and nutrient composition of Phyllanthus amarus, providing insights that could lead to its effective use in nutraceutical applications.

7) Disease:
Disease refers to a dysfunction of the body or mind resulting in health impairment. The document discusses the potential of Phyllanthus amarus to treat various diseases such as liver disorders and diabetes, suggesting the plant's therapeutic relevance based on its phytochemical composition and bioactivity.

8) Water:
Water is a vital solvent and medium for biochemical reactions in living organisms. The extraction process of Phyllanthus amarus utilized water to dissolve its active constituents, thereby extracting phytochemicals and nutrients necessary for testing their biological activities in the study, highlighting its importance in herbal medicine.

9) Drug:
A drug is any substance used for medicinal purposes to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat, or prevent disease. The inquiry into Phyllanthus amarus positions it as a potential natural drug, emphasizing its chemical constituents that provide therapeutic effects similar to conventional pharmaceuticals.

10) Medicine:
Medicine embodies the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing disease. Traditional medicine particularly relies on plants like Phyllanthus amarus, which contains bioactive compounds that contribute to its efficacy in treating illnesses, showcasing the integration of pharmacology with traditional knowledge.

11) Rich (Ṛch):
Rich denotes an abundance or high concentration of a particular substance. In this context, Phyllanthus amarus is described as rich in various antioxidants and essential nutrients, indicating its high nutritional and therapeutic potential, which can be leveraged in herbal formulations.

12) Ramaswamy (Ramaswami):
Ramaswami refers to Seethalakshmi Ramaswami College, indicating the institution where part of the research was conducted. Institutional associations enhance the credibility of the study by linking the research to an established academic body that supports scientific inquiries and discoveries.

13) Substance:
A substance is a particular kind of matter with uniform properties. The discussion revolves around various substances found in Phyllanthus amarus, such as antioxidants and phytochemicals, which exhibit specific biological activities relevant to health outcomes, illustrating the plant's therapeutic capabilities.

14) Toxicity:
Toxicity refers to the degree to which a substance can be harmful to an organism. Understanding the toxicity of compounds in plant extracts is essential, as this affects their safety profile and therapeutic applicability in treating diseases while minimizing adverse effects in consumers.

15) Species:
Species pertains to a group of closely related organisms capable of interbreeding. The term, in this context, highlights the relevance of Phyllanthus amarus as a species within the broader group of medicinal plants known for their health benefits, emphasizing biodiversity in herbal medicine.

16) Sugar:
Sugar refers to sweet-tasting, short-chain carbohydrates. The study indicates the presence of sugars in the plant, linking them to energy availability and potential health implications, such as the role of carbohydrates in fueling biological processes and their impact on metabolic health.

17) Food:
Food constitutes any substance consumed to provide nutritional support for the body. The role of Phyllanthus amarus extends to its incorporation as a functional food, due to its rich nutrient profile and health benefits, underlining the significance of diet in disease management.

18) Human body:
The human body is the physical structure of a person. Understanding how substances from plants affect the human body is crucial for developing effective treatments. Research into phytochemicals in Phyllanthus amarus sheds light on their potential health benefits and biochemical interactions.

19) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological refers to the branch of medicine concerned with the uses, effects, and modes of action of drugs. The study’s findings on Phyllanthus amarus provide pharmacological insights into how its constituents can influence health and address specific ailments through their active compounds.

20) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
Transformation denotes a process of change. Within the context of biochemistry and pharmacology, it's significant how compounds undergo transformation in the body to exert therapeutic effects. Understanding these transformations helps in optimizing the use of herbal medicines like Phyllanthus amarus in therapies.

21) Inflammation:
Inflammation is the body’s response to injury or infection, often leading to redness and swelling. The presence of anti-inflammatory compounds in plants like Phyllanthus amarus suggests its potential for managing inflammation-related disorders, contributing to its traditional use in medicine.

22) Observation:
Observation entails the act of carefully monitoring and noting phenomena during experiments or studies. The research involves numerous observations about the chemical composition and biological activities of Phyllanthus amarus, leading to conclusions about its potential health benefits and efficacy in treatment.

23) Kumbakonam (Kumbhakonam, Kumbakoṇam, Kumbhakoṇam):
Kumbakonam signifies a location, specifically where one of the authors, M. Jayaraj, is affiliated. This geographical context adds to the collaborative nature of research, highlighting localized knowledge and relevance of indigenous plants in traditional medicine and their potential rediscovery.

24) Discussion:
Discussion is a section of research where interpretations and implications of findings are explored. The discussion in this context evaluates the significance of the results observed from Phyllanthus amarus studies, relating them to existing literature and potential applications in health.

25) Swelling:
Swelling refers to an abnormal enlargement of a body part due to inflammation or accumulation of fluids. The efficacy of Phyllanthus amarus in treating conditions associated with swelling is highlighted, demonstrating its therapeutic applications in managing symptoms of various ailments.

26) Trichy:
Trichy is short for Tiruchirappalli, the location of Seethalakshmi Ramaswami College. The regional context signifies the local use of plants like Phyllanthus amarus in traditional medicine and emphasizes the importance of geographic diversity in the study of herbal remedies.

27) Cancer:
Cancer is a disease characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. The potential of Phyllanthus amarus to exhibit anticancer properties, attributed to its phytochemical makeup, underscores the increasing interest in natural substances as alternatives or complements to conventional cancer treatments.

28) Repair:
Repair refers to the process of restoring health or function. The study highlights how the antioxidative properties of Phyllanthus amarus can promote cellular repair, mitigating damage caused by oxidative stress, and suggesting its use in preventing diseases linked to oxidative damage.

29) Edema (Oedema):
Oedema is the accumulation of excess fluid in body tissues. The traditional use of Phyllanthus amarus for treating oedema is supported by research that may validate its effectiveness in alleviating such symptoms, showcasing the relevance of herbal treatments in modern therapeutics.

30) Purity:
Purity refers to the absence of contaminants in a substance. Assessing the purity of extracts like Phyllanthus amarus is critical in pharmacognosy to ensure that therapeutic products are safe and effective, highlighting the importance of quality control in herbal medicine.

31) Reason:
Reason provides the underlying rationale for research or actions. The exploration of Phyllanthus amarus provides a reasoned analysis of its antioxidant properties, linking traditional knowledge with scientific inquiry to justify its potential use in health promotion and disease prevention.

32) Insect:
Insects often pose threats to plants, leading to defensive adaptations. The study notes the innate ability of plants like Phyllanthus amarus to produce phytochemicals in response to insect damage, underscoring the evolutionary dynamics between plants and their environments impacting medicinal properties.

33) India:
India represents the geographical origin of Phyllanthus amarus and signifies the rich heritage of traditional medicine. The study contextualizes this plant within the Indian landscape of herbal medicine, supporting the integration of indigenous knowledge and modern scientific validation in health practices.

34) Ulcer:
An ulcer is a sore that develops on the lining of the stomach or intestines. The traditional use of Phyllanthus amarus to treat ulcers points to its potential therapeutic benefits derived from its phytochemical components, reinforcing the link between herbal remedies and gastrointestinal health.

35) Fever:
Fever is often a symptom of infection or illness. The use of Phyllanthus amarus in treating fevers highlights its significance in traditional medicine, with research affirming its bioactive constituents that may contribute to antipyretic effects, representing its role in symptom management.

36) Beta (Bēṭa, Beṭa):
Beta typically refers to beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A found in certain plants. The presence of such compounds in Phyllanthus amarus correlates with its antioxidant properties, supporting the body's health through nutrient provision and potential roles in disease prevention.

37) Dhar:
Dhar pertains to a researcher referenced in this study, indicating collaboration in the scientific investigation of Phyllanthus amarus. The contribution of various authors adds credibility to the research and showcases the interconnection of knowledge in advancing understanding of medicinal plants.

38) Life:
Life represents the biological processes that characterize living organisms. The study emphasizes how Phyllanthus amarus contributes to health and longevity by exploring its therapeutic properties, linking plant biology to its potential benefits in enhancing quality of life through traditional therapies.

39) Hand:
Hand refers figuratively to the human involvement in practices such as agriculture or herbal medicine. The intricate relationship between humanity and the natural world is emphasized through the use of plants like Phyllanthus amarus, showcasing traditional wisdom in utilizing nature’s resources for health.

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