Phytochemical and pharmacognostic study of Eulophia ochreata tubers.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Preliminary phytochemical and pharmacognostic investigation of eulophia ochreata lindl. tubers (orchidaceae)
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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Akshada A. Koparde and Dr. C. S. Magdum
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Preliminary phytochemical and pharmacognostic investigation of eulophia ochreata lindl. tubers (orchidaceae)
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Eulophia ochreata Lindl, commonly referred to as "Amarkand" or "Singadyakand," is a ground orchid belonging to the Orchidaceae family. It possesses traditional medicinal value, largely utilized by local tribes for various health benefits, including its astringent and rejuvenating properties. Despite its importance in folk medicine, there has been a noticeable lack of systematic scientific exploration into its pharmacognostic and phytochemical characteristics. This research aims to address the gap by analyzing the tubers of E. ochreata to establish standardized identification parameters and investigate its chemical constituents.
Macroscopic and Microscopic Features
The tubers of Eulophia ochreata exhibit distinct macroscopic characteristics, being fibrous, stout, and generally light brown in color. They possess notable features such as numerous rootlets and a prominent node structure. The flowers are easily identifiable due to their yellow hue. Microscopic examination reveals the presence of various cellular structures, including cork layers filled with lignified cells, parenchymatous ground tissue, and scattered vascular bundles. The vascular system consists of xylem and phloem components that facilitate water and nutrient transport, respectively. These distinct morphology and structure components assist in identifying the plant and differentiating it from other species.
Phytochemical Analysis
Preliminary phytochemical screening of E. ochreata revealed the presence of several key phytoconstituents, including alkaloids, glycosides, saponins, flavonoids, and tannins among others. Various extraction techniques, such as Soxhlet extraction and microwave extraction, were employed to obtain different types of extracts from the tubers. The analysis indicated that each extract possessed unique compounds, with some shared across different extraction methods. This diversity in chemical constituents highlights the importance of E. ochreata as a potential source of bioactive compounds, which can be of significant interest in pharmacological and therapeutic applications.
Physicochemical Properties
The physicochemical parameters of Eulophia ochreata tubers were evaluated to ensure the authenticity and quality of the plant material. Results showed that the total ash value was 5%, with specific values for water-soluble and acid-insoluble ash, indicating the plant's mineral content. The moisture content was found to be low, while the extractive values in water and alcohol suggested a rich presence of soluble phytoconstituents. Evaluation of these physicochemical characteristics plays a crucial role in standardizing the herbal material, ensuring purity, and identifying potential adulteration.
Conclusion
This research provides valuable insights into the pharmacognostic and phytochemical profile of Eulophia ochreata Lindl. The findings suggest significant morphological and microscopic characteristics that are instrumental for proper identification and standardization of the plant. Moreover, the rich array of phytoconstituents supports the traditional uses of E. ochreata in herbal medicine. Establishing quality parameters and chemical profiles contributes not only to its identification but also underscores its potential value as a source of therapeutic agents, warranting further exploration in modern pharmacognosy and phytotherapy.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Eulophia ochreata and its traditional uses?
Eulophia ochreata, known as Amarkand or Singadyakand, is a medicinal plant. It is used by tribes for various purposes including general tonics, blood purification, cough remedies, and as an aphrodisiac.
What are the macroscopic characteristics of Eulophia ochreata tubers?
The tubers are light brown, odorless, fibrous in texture, and range from 4-7 cm in width and 5-9 cm in length. They exhibit prominent nodular structures and numerous rootlets.
What were the main findings from the microscopic examination?
Microscopic studies revealed the presence of cork layers, parenchymatous tissues, scattered vascular bundles, mucilage cells, and calcium oxalate crystals in the tubers, which are vital for identification.
What phytochemical constituents were identified in Eulophia ochreata?
Significant phytochemicals present include alkaloids, saponins, tannins, flavonoids, and mucilage. These compounds contribute to its medicinal properties.
How were the physicochemical parameters of Eulophia ochreata assessed?
Physicochemical parameters such as moisture content, total ash value, and extractive values were determined according to methods outlined in the Indian pharmacopoeia and WHO guidelines.
What role does TLC play in the analysis of Eulophia ochreata?
Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) helps identify various chemical compounds in Eulophia ochreata extracts by analyzing Rf values and spotting colors, which is crucial for standardization and quality control.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Phytochemical and pharmacognostic study of Eulophia ochreata tubers.”. 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) Powder:
The term 'Powder' refers to the finely ground form of the tubers of Eulophia ochreata, which is essential for various analyses in pharmacognostic studies. It allows for the examination of physical and chemical properties, extraction of active phytochemical constituents, and serves as the primary material for evaluating the medicinal efficacy of the plant.
2) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds found in plants, including alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins, which can have therapeutic effects. The study of phytochemicals in Eulophia ochreata was vital to identify its medicinal properties and potential health benefits, contributing to the plant's traditional and contemporary herbal applications.
3) Drug:
In the context of this study, a 'Drug' refers to any substance derived from the plant Eulophia ochreata that possesses therapeutic properties. Understanding the drug's pharmacological actions and mechanisms is essential to validate its traditional uses and ensure safe and effective applications in modern medicine.
4) Table:
The word 'Table' in the research represents a systematic arrangement of data, summarizing findings such as phytochemical tests or physicochemical parameters. Tables aid in presenting complex information clearly, facilitating analysis and comparison of results, which is crucial for understanding the characteristics of Eulophia ochreata.
5) Medicine:
The term 'Medicine' denotes the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases. Eulophia ochreata serves as a traditional medicinal plant in various cultures, with its various therapeutic properties being explored in this study, underscoring the bridge between traditional knowledge and scientific validation.
6) Water:
Water is a critical solvent used in the extraction of bioactive compounds from the tubers of Eulophia ochreata. The presence and interaction of phytochemicals in aqueous extracts are important for both therapeutic applications and quality control in herbal medicine, highlighting the solvent's role in pharmacognostic research.
7) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are a class of phytochemicals known for their antioxidant properties and potential health benefits. Their identification in Eulophia ochreata provides insight into the therapeutic value of this plant, indicating its role in traditional medicine as a remedy for various ailments due to its protective effects.
8) Quality:
The term 'Quality' is paramount in herbal medicine, referring to the purity, strength, and efficacy of plant materials. Assessing the quality of Eulophia ochreata through pharmacognostic parameters ensures that the therapeutic products derived from it meet safety standards and deliver intended benefits.
9) Forest:
The 'Forest' is the natural habitat where Eulophia ochreata thrives, emphasizing the ecological aspects of the plant's growth. Sustainable harvesting from forest ecosystems is essential for preserving biodiversity, while the plant's traditional uses by local communities underline the intertwined relationship between nature and medicinal practices.
10) Purity:
Purity indicates the absence of contaminants and adulterants in Eulophia ochreata preparations. Establishing purity is crucial for ensuring the safety and efficacy of herbal medicines, and the research includes parameters to assess the purity and authenticity of the plant material, thereby reinforcing its medicinal value.
11) India:
India is highlighted as the geographical source of Eulophia ochreata, linking the plant to its cultural and traditional medicinal practices. The rich biodiversity and traditional knowledge systems in India offer a unique perspective on the use of local flora for health and wellness.
12) Study (Studying):
The 'Study' refers to the systematic investigation of Eulophia ochreata's phytochemical and pharmacognostic properties. Conducting such research is essential for validating traditional uses, discovering new therapeutic applications, and contributing to the field of herbal medicine within the scientific community.
13) Food:
In the context of Eulophia ochreata, 'Food' refers to its use as a nutritional supplement by local tribes. Recognizing the plant as a food source reinforces its importance in traditional diets and highlights its additional value beyond medicinal applications, integrating health and nutrition.
14) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological studies focus on understanding the effects of Eulophia ochreata on biological systems. Investigating its pharmacological properties supports the validation of traditional uses and demonstrates its potential therapeutic applications in modern medicine, bridging the gap between herbal and synthetic pharmaceuticals.
15) Maharashtra (Maharastra, Maha-rashtra):
Maharashtra is the specific region in India where Eulophia ochreata is found and studied. The local practices and traditional knowledge in Maharashtra regarding the plant's uses contribute to the understanding of its cultural significance and potential therapeutic applications in herbal medicine.
16) Kolhapur:
Kolhapur is a district in Maharashtra known for its rich biodiversity and traditional uses of local plants. As one of the identified habitats for Eulophia ochreata, it underscores the importance of regional knowledge in herbal medicine and the need for conservation of indigenous plants.
17) Swelling:
Swelling is a key parameter assessed in the physicochemical analysis of Eulophia ochreata tubers, indicating their capacity to absorb water and form gels. This property could reflect the plant's ability to provide functional benefits in food and medicinal applications, enhancing its value.
18) Species:
The word 'Species' relates to Eulophia ochreata as a specific member of the Orchidaceae family. Identifying the species is critical for botanical classification, conservation efforts, and ensuring the correct application of traditional medicinal knowledge, as different species may have varied medicinal properties.
19) Surface:
The 'Surface' of the tubers plays a role in determining their overall characteristics, including texture and the presence of root scars. Understanding surface features aids in the identification and quality assessment of herbal materials in pharmacognostic studies.
20) Nature:
Nature relates to the ecological context of Eulophia ochreata, emphasizing the plant's existence in natural habitats and its interactions with the environment. Preservation of such natural resources is vital for supporting traditional medicinal practices and ensuring continued access to diverse plant species.
21) Life:
Life indicates the biological significance of Eulophia ochreata within its ecosystem, as well as its role in traditional healing practices. Understanding the plant's contributions to both ecological and human health enhances its appreciation and underscores the importance of biodiversity in medicine.
22) Pharmacognostical:
Pharmacognostical refers to the study of the characteristics of medicinal plants, focusing on their identification, validation, and quality control. This approach towards Eulophia ochreata is crucial for establishing standards that ensure safe and effective use in herbal medicine, serving both traditional and modern health paradigms.
23) Purification:
Purification refers to the processes involved in isolating active constituents from plant materials like Eulophia ochreata. Effective purification techniques are critical for obtaining pure extracts that maintain the desired therapeutic properties while ensuring safety and efficacy for herbal medicinal applications.
24) Developing:
Developing denotes the process of advancing knowledge about Eulophia ochreata through research efforts. This encompasses exploration of its medicinal properties, refining extraction techniques, and establishing pharmacological profiles, all of which contribute to modern healthcare practices and the integration of herbal medicine.
25) Science (Scientific):
Science represents the systematic study of Eulophia ochreata through hypothesis testing and evidence-based approaches. This scientific inquiry bridges traditional knowledge with modern research, ensuring that the medicinal properties of the plant are thoroughly evaluated and understood in contemporary health practices.
26) Nandurbar:
Nandurbar is another region in Maharashtra associated with the traditional use of Eulophia ochreata. The local practices and cultural significance of the plant in this area reflect the diversity of knowledge surrounding indigenous plants and underscore the need for conservation and research in traditional herbal applications.
27) Knowledge:
Knowledge encompasses the understanding gained from traditional and modern studies of Eulophia ochreata. It highlights the importance of integrating folk wisdom and scientific research to enhance the utilization of medicinal plants and support informed decision-making in herbal medicine.
28) Toxicity:
Toxicity refers to the potential harmful effects of consuming herbal materials. Evaluating toxicity is essential for ensuring the safety of Eulophia ochreata as a food and medicinal source, reinforcing the need for comprehensive studies to rule out adverse effects and promote its safe use.
29) Heating:
Heating indicates a process often involved in traditional methods of preparing herbal remedies. In the context of Eulophia ochreata, understanding how heating affects the extraction of bioactive compounds provides insights into optimizing preparation methods for enhanced therapeutic efficacy.
30) Disease:
Disease signifies the pathological conditions that Eulophia ochreata may address according to traditional uses. Exploring its therapeutic potential supports its role in holistic health and defines its relevance in treating ailments, thus affirming the importance of such plants in health care.
31) Family:
Family pertains to the taxonomic category of 'Orchidaceae' to which Eulophia ochreata belongs. Understanding the family relations aids in identifying the plant's characteristics, potential medicinal uses, and conservation needs, promoting broader studies on the biodiversity within this plant family.
32) Silver:
In the context of pharmacognostic studies, 'Silver' may refer to reactions or tests involving silver ions that help in identifying particular compounds or properties in Eulophia ochreata. Utilizing such indicators is important in the chemical analysis of herbal materials and ensuring quality control.
33) Indian:
Indian signifies the cultural and geographical context of Eulophia ochreata, integrating its significance within Indian traditional medicine. The amalgamation of cultural knowledge and biodiversity in India enhances the understanding of the plant's uses and the need for preservation of its heritage.
34) Botany:
Botany is the scientific study of plants, including Eulophia ochreata. This field provides critical insights into plant characteristics, classification, and ecological roles, underpinning the importance of botanical knowledge in herbal medicine and the development of effective medicinal products.
35) Blood:
Blood relates to the traditional claims of Eulophia ochreata as a blood purifier. Investigating such claims through scientific studies is essential for understanding its potential health benefits and validating its use in traditional practices aimed at promoting overall well-being.
36) Acrid:
Acrid describes the slightly pungent taste of the tubers of Eulophia ochreata. Taste properties have implications for traditional medicine and food applications, impacting acceptability, and guiding potential formulations that harness its biological effects while ensuring consumer preferences are met.
37) Lemon:
Lemon may describe the color or characteristics of certain extracts from Eulophia ochreata, particularly in fluorescence analysis. Understanding such attributes helps in identifying specific compounds and assessing the plant's quality and therapeutic potential through visual examination in phytochemical studies.
38) Line:
Line pertains to the methodological aspects of studying Eulophia ochreata, potentially referencing linear parameters in data collection or chromatographic techniques employed in analyzing its phytochemical components. Such precision in study design is critical for robust scientific findings.
39) Hand:
Hand may indicate manual techniques used in the research process, such as hand sectioning for microscopy or manual preparation of chromatographic plates. The emphasis on hands-on methodologies highlights the practical aspects of conducting pharmacognostic studies and the artisanal approach in herbal medicine research.
40) Soil:
Soil signifies the natural habitat of Eulophia ochreata, which affects its growth, nutrient composition, and interaction with its environment. Understanding the soil conditions contributes to sustainable cultivation practices and conservation efforts for this medicinal plant, ensuring its availability for future generations.