Anatomical study of Holarrhena antidysenterica bark samples
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Anatomical study of marketed samples of the bark of holarrhena antidysenterica wall.
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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Meenakshi Vaidya
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Anatomical study of marketed samples of the bark of holarrhena antidysenterica wall.
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Holarrhena antidysenterica Wall., a member of the Apocynaceae family, is commonly used in traditional medicine and has applications in treating various ailments such as dysentery and skin diseases. Due to its similarities with another plant, Wrightia tinctoria R. Br., there is a risk of misidentification and adulteration. The study detailed in this article aims to examine the anatomical features of the bark of both plants and assess the adulteration of marketed samples of Holarrhena antidysenterica. This is pertinent as the integrity of herbal drugs can affect their efficacy and safety.
Anatomy and Identification of Holarrhena antidysenterica
The study elucidates the anatomical characteristics of Holarrhena antidysenterica bark as opposed to Wrightia tinctoria. The bark of Holarrhena is described as buff to brownish, with a recurved shape and dimensions 10-15 cm in length, 3-4 cm in breadth, and 6-12 mm in thickness. In contrast, Wrightia tinctoria has greyish-dull green bark, up to 10 cm long, 1-2 cm wide, and 3-5 mm thick, exhibiting a fibrous fracture. These distinctive anatomical features not only help in accurate identification but also serve as a basis for recognizing adulterated samples in the market.
Adulteration in Market Samples
The research highlights concerning findings regarding the adulteration of marketed samples of Holarrhena antidysenterica bark. Analysis revealed that Market Sample 1 contains xylem elements indicative of adulteration with other parts of the stem, while Market Sample 2 was found to be unadulterated and accurately represented the original powder. Conversely, Market Sample 3 was contaminated with silica and fine sand particles to artificially increase weight. The results underscore the challenges faced in ensuring the quality of herbal products marketed to consumers.
Microscopy and Diagnostic Features
Microscopic analysis was employed as a critical tool in differentiating between the anatomical structures of the two plant species and the marketed samples. The study detailed various characteristics such as cork structure, phloem traits, and the presence of sclereids and crystal formations. These features can appear modified in powdered samples, complicating the identification process. Significant variances in coloration, texture, and cellular structures were documented, which are essential for accurately assessing the authenticity of herbal drugs.
Conclusion
The study by Vaidya demonstrates the importance of anatomical studies in preserving the integrity of herbal remedies. It reveals the significant risk of adulteration in market samples and emphasizes the need for stringent quality control measures in the herbal pharmaceutical industry. The variations in anatomical characteristics between Holarrhena antidysenterica and Wrightia tinctoria serve as critical identifiers, providing guidelines for identifying authentic and unadulterated herbal products. Understanding these botanical features and the risks of adulteration is vital for healthcare practitioners, consumers, and regulatory bodies to ensure the safe use of herbal medicines.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the significance of Holarrhena antidysenterica in medicine?
Holarrhena antidysenterica is used for treating various conditions like dysentery, diarrhea, skin diseases, and fever. Its bark and seeds possess significant medicinal properties, aiding in problems related to vitiated tridoshas and other ailments.
How is Holarrhena antidysenterica commonly adulterated?
It is often confused with Wrightia tinctoria, leading to adulteration. Market samples of Holarrhena may contain parts of other plants, silica, sand, or other contaminants to increase weight and profit.
What methods were used in the anatomical study of the barks?
The study involved collecting samples, bleaching with sodium hypochlorite, and staining with Safranine. Microscopic features were observed and measured using specialized equipment to identify distinct anatomical characteristics.
What are the physical characteristics of Holarrhena antidysenterica bark?
Holarrhena antidysenterica bark is buff to brownish, with a recurved shape. It exhibits deep cracks on the outer surface and a reddish-brown inner surface, making it distinguishable from Wrightia tinctoria.
What were the results for the marketed samples tested?
Market Sample 1 showed adulteration, while Sample 2 was pure Holarrhena antidysenterica. Sample 3 was confirmed as adulterated with silica and fine sand, showing that not all marketed products are genuine or unadulterated.
What is the role of phytochemical screening in the study?
Phytochemical screening helps identify and analyze the chemical compounds present in Holarrhena antidysenterica, ensuring quality control and verification of medicinal properties while supporting the authenticity of marketed samples.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Anatomical study of Holarrhena antidysenterica bark samples”. 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) Vaidya:
Vaidya refers to Meenakshi Vaidya, the author of the study on Holarrhena antidysenterica and Wrightia tinctoria. As a scholar affiliated with the Department of Botany at Mithibai College, her research emphasizes the importance of accurate botanical identification in medicinal plants, contributing significantly to pharmacognosy and ensuring quality in herbal medicine.
2) Powder:
Powder is a form of the bark used in traditional medicine. The study highlights the powdered forms of Holarrhena antidysenterica and Wrightia tinctoria available in the market. Analyzing powdered samples helps identify adulteration, critical for maintaining quality assurance in herbal therapeutics and ensuring patient safety.
3) Study (Studying):
The study denotes a structured scientific investigation undertaken by Meenakshi Vaidya to evaluate the anatomical and microscopic features of the barks. It aims to distinguish between authentic and adulterated samples, reinforcing the importance of thorough botanical research for the effective use of medicinal plants in healthcare.
4) Wall:
Wall refers to the nomenclatural designation of Holarrhena antidysenterica. The term is indicative of the plant's classification and origin, which in this context, underscores its credibility in herbal medicine. Correct identification of plant species is essential to ensure proper therapeutic application and avoid misuse.
5) Surface:
Surface refers to the outer characteristics of the bark of Holarrhena antidysenterica and Wrightia tinctoria. This feature is crucial for visual identification and quality assessment. Distinct surface traits, such as color and texture, help distinguish between authentic medicinal barks and their adulterated counterparts.
6) Family:
Family refers to Apocynaceae, the botanical classification encompassing both Holarrhena antidysenterica and Wrightia tinctoria. A proper understanding of botanical families is essential for pharmacognosy as it provides insights into shared characteristics, potential therapeutic uses, and helps identify relationships between different plant species.
7) Shand (Sand):
Sand signifies one of the identified adulterants present in the powdered samples of Holarrhena antidysenterica. The presence of sand not only indicates adulteration but also raises concerns over product purity and efficacy. Awareness of such contaminants is vital for ensuring safe herbal products for consumers.
8) Drug:
Drug in this context refers to the medicinal preparations derived from Holarrhena antidysenterica. The text underscores the significance of authentic drugs in pharmacy, highlighting how contaminated or adulterated herbal drugs can lead to suboptimal therapeutic outcomes, necessitating rigorous quality control standards.
9) Disease:
Disease pertains to the health conditions that Holarrhena antidysenterica is traditionally used to treat, including diarrhea, dysentery, and other ailments. Understanding the medicinal properties and potential applications of this plant provides valuable insights for holistic health practices in traditional medicine.
10) Meenakshi:
Meenakshi refers to Meenakshi Vaidya, the researcher whose work is presented in the article. Her exploration of the anatomical features of two plants supports the validation of herbal medicine, emphasizing the need for scientific scrutiny in the identification of medicinal plants.
11) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiated refers to the imbalance of the three doshas (vata, pitta, and kapha) in Ayurvedic medicine. Holarrhena antidysenterica is known to pacify these vitiated conditions, thus demonstrating its importance in traditional healing philosophies and its relevance in restoring balance in patients.
12) Muslin:
Muslin refers to the type of cloth used for filtering the powdered bark in the study's methodology. This material plays a crucial role in ensuring the separation of solid plant remnants from liquids, enabling accurate microscopic analysis and contributing to the overall reliability of the research.
13) Botany:
Botany is the scientific study of plants, which serves as the foundational discipline for understanding the physiological and anatomical aspects of Holarrhena antidysenterica and Wrightia tinctoria. This knowledge is essential for quality control and effective application of medicinal plants.
14) India:
India, the geographical context of the research, is known for its rich tradition of herbal medicine and biodiversity. The country's diverse flora contributes significantly to traditional healing practices, making studies like this vital for sustaining cultural heritage and improving contemporary healthcare.
15) Water:
Water serves as a crucial solvent in the preparation and processing of herbal powders. In the context of the study, it is used for washing and preparing samples prior to analysis, emphasizing its significance as a simple yet essential laboratory resource for botanical research.
16) Pain:
Pain denotes a common symptom for which Holarrhena antidysenterica is purported to provide relief. The effectiveness of the plant in alleviating pain underscores the importance of thorough pharmacological investigation, ultimately aiding healthcare professionals in selecting appropriate herbal remedies for symptom management.
17) Phytochemical:
Phytochemical refers to the bioactive compounds found in plants, which are essential for their medicinal properties. The study draws attention to phytochemical screening, reflecting the significance of understanding these compounds for validating the efficacy and therapeutic potential of Holarrhena antidysenterica.
18) Discussion:
Discussion pertains to the section of the study where the results are interpreted and the implications of findings are explored. It serves as a platform for understanding the anatomical differences between the two plant samples and emphasizes the importance of recognizing adulteration in herbal products.
19) Science (Scientific):
Scientific refers to the systematic and empirical methods employed in the study. This approach is vital for ensuring the credibility of research findings, establishing a foundation for evidence-based practices within the field of herbal medicine, and fostering trust in traditional remedies.
20) Tridosha (Tridosa, Tri-dosha):
Tridosha is a fundamental concept in Ayurveda representing the three bodily humors (vata, pitta, kapha). The mention of tridosha highlights the therapeutic perspective of Holarrhena antidysenterica, where its utilization is aimed at restoring balance to these vital energies, reflecting Ayurvedic principles in treatment.
21) Medicine:
Medicine refers to the practice of diagnosing and treating illnesses, with Holarrhena antidysenterica being a component of this field. The emphasis on this herb within traditional medicine denotes its historical and ongoing role in managing various health conditions, particularly in Ayurvedic contexts.
22) Commerce:
Commerce relates to the trade and industry of herbal products. The text sheds light on issues such as adulteration in the market, signaling the need for regulatory measures to ensure that medicinal herbs traded meet purity standards for the safety and efficacy of consumers.
23) Language:
Language signifies the various linguistic names attributed to Holarrhena antidysenterica across different cultures. This aspect underscores the significance of traditional knowledge and the rich diversity of cultural references associated with the medicinal use of this plant, enhancing its historical context.
24) Kalinga (Kalimga):
Kalinga is a regional name for Holarrhena antidysenterica, highlighting the plant's significance in local herbal practices. This reference serves to illustrate the cultural diversity in the naming and utilization of medicinal plants across different regions in India, enriching folk medicinal traditions.
25) Pungent:
Pungent describes a distinct sensory characteristic of Holarrhena antidysenterica bark, indicating its active chemical constituents. This quality contributes to the plant's medicinal properties, underscoring its utility in traditional medicine for conditions that benefit from its specific taste and characteristics.
26) Leprosy:
Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease that the seeds of Holarrhena antidysenterica are traditionally used to treat. This signifies the historical role that specific plants play in managing serious health conditions, reinforcing the importance of botanical studies for authenticating such traditional practices.
27) Kutaja (Kuta-ja):
Kutaja is a common name for Holarrhena antidysenterica, particularly in Ayurvedic contexts. It reflects the plant's significance in traditional healing practices and highlights how local nomenclature connects cultural identity with medicinal use, reinforcing the need for botanical nomenclature in research.
28) Bitter:
Bitter refers to the taste profile of Holarrhena antidysenterica powder. This taste is often associated with its therapeutic effects in traditional medicine, particularly in treating gastrointestinal issues, emphasizing the importance of taste in determining the medicinal value of herbal remedies.
29) Labour (Labor):
Labour refers to the workforce involved in the collection, processing, and trade of medicinal plants. The mention of labor costs underscores the economic implications of herbal medicine, highlighting the challenges faced by collectors and producers in sustaining the supply of authentic herbal products.
30) Indigo:
Indigo references Wrightia tinctoria, known for its use in dyeing and medicinal applications. Its inclusion in the study highlights the diversity of uses found within the Apocynaceae family, portraying a broader perspective of botanical resources that serve multiple purposes in traditional practices.
31) Pitta:
Pitta refers to one of the three doshas in Ayurvedic medicine associated with fire and metabolism. Holarrhena antidysenterica is known to pacify vitiated pitta. This illustrates the plant's role in promoting bodily harmony according to Ayurvedic principles, enhancing its application in holistic healthcare.
32) Ivory:
Ivory relates to Wrightia tinctoria, commonly called Ivory wood. The term emphasizes the aesthetic and functional aspects of the wood from this species. It serves to distinguish this plant from Holarrhena antidysenterica, underlining the need for clarity in plant identification within herbal commerce.
33) Table:
Table refers to a format used in the text to organize data regarding material collection and characteristics of plant samples. Tables are essential in scientific writing for clearly presenting comparative information, aiding in the clarity of results and allowing for easier interpretation by readers.
34) Fever:
Fever denotes a common symptom associated with numerous illnesses that Holarrhena antidysenterica is believed to address. The mention of fever in the study emphasizes the relevance of this plant in traditional medicine for treating febrile conditions, thus reinforcing its therapeutic importance.
35) Acrid:
Acrid describes the intense and sharp taste associated with Holarrhena antidysenterica, contributing to its medicinal properties. This quality is significant in various traditional formulations where taste can influence therapeutic outcomes, highlighting the importance of organoleptic properties in herbal medicine.
36) Kuda:
Kuda is another vernacular name for Holarrhena antidysenterica, illustrating the plant’s recognition across different cultures and languages in India. Such names reflect the cultural significance and local usage, demonstrating the diverse traditional knowledge associated with its medicinal properties.
37) Shri (Sri, Sr):
Shri, often used as a title of respect in Indian cultures, may refer to the establishment or authority behind the Ayurveda stores mentioned in the text. It underscores the cultural importance of herbal medicine establishments in providing authentic treatment options to customers.
38) Vata:
Vata refers to one of the three doshas in Ayurvedic philosophy, associated with air and movement. Holarrhena antidysenterica is known to address vitiated vata imbalances. This reinforces its importance in Ayurvedic practices, emphasizing holistic treatment strategies for maintaining overall health.
39) Pala:
Pala is commonly known as Wrightia tinctoria in some regions, further connecting the plant's traditional uses with its identity. The term underscores the necessity for accurate nomenclature in botany, ensuring that herbal products derived from either species are correctly recognized for their therapeutic properties.