Pharmacognosy of south indian datepalm – phoenix pusilla

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Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Pharmacognosy of south indian datepalm – phoenix pusilla
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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Original source:

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Author:

Farhanaz Bh., Anuradha V., Suganya V. and Vijayabharathi T.


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Pharmacognosy of south indian datepalm – phoenix pusilla

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

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201716-10228


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The study conducted by Anuradha et al. focuses on the pharmacognosy of Phoenix pusilla, a small multipurpose date palm species native to South India. This research aims to evaluate the physicochemical parameters and phytochemical composition of both the fruit and seed methanolic extracts from this plant. The use of medicinal plants has deep roots in Indian culture, where they play a significant role in traditional medicine and have been utilized for over 3,000 years. The findings highlight the potential of Phoenix pusilla as a source of nutraceuticals and bioactive compounds, essential for drug development and health benefits.

Proximate Composition and Physicochemical Evaluation

One of the crucial aspects evaluated in this study is the proximate composition of the fruit and seed extracts of Phoenix pusilla. The analysis revealed that the fruit pulp contained significant moisture, crude protein, lipid, and fiber contents compared to the seed powder. Additionally, the extractive values indicated a higher solubility in alcohol for both samples, with the fruit showing more carbohydrates, pigments, and proteins, while the seed extract had a higher lipid content. This characterization provides a foundation for understanding the nutritional components of the fruit and seed, highlighting their potential dietary benefits.

Phytochemical Analysis and Secondary Metabolites

The phytochemical screening performed in this investigation focused on identifying valuable secondary metabolites in the extracts of Phoenix pusilla. It was discovered that both the fruit and seeds contained flavonoids, phenolics, and tannins, which are known for their health benefits. Notably, the fruit pulp was found to have a higher concentration of phenolic compounds compared to the seeds. The presence of these phytochemicals suggests that Phoenix pusilla could be an important source of antioxidants, with potential therapeutic effects against various diseases, including cancer.

Extractive Values and Solubility

The extractive values of the fruit and seed were assessed using different solvents, revealing varying solubility levels among the constituents. The alcohol-soluble extractive value was notably higher than both water and ether solubility, suggesting that a substantial portion of the bioactive compounds are best extracted using alcohol. This finding emphasizes the need for specific methods of extraction when studying the medicinal properties of plants. Moreover, the study highlights that lower extractive values in any plant material may indicate poor quality or improper handling during preservation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the research on Phoenix pusilla underscores its potential as a rich source of bioactive compounds and nutraceuticals. The findings emphasize the significance of both proximate composition and secondary metabolites, indicating that both fruit and seed extracts possess considerable pharmacological properties. As such, this palm species presents numerous opportunities for applications in drug development aimed at various health conditions. The study advocates for further exploration into the characterization of bioactive compounds to fully understand their therapeutic potential and applications in modern medicine.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What was the focus of the study on Phoenix pusilla?

The study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical parameters and phytochemical analysis of the fruit and seed methanolic extract of Phoenix pusilla, determining the presence of primary and secondary metabolites.

What primary metabolites were quantified in the study?

The study quantified carbohydrates, chlorophyll, proteins, and lipids, finding carbohydrates as the most abundant in the fruit pulp compared to the seed.

How were the extracts prepared for analysis?

The fruit pulp and seed were dried and soaked in methanol for 24 hours, then filtered, concentrated, and prepared at a concentration of 1 mg/ml for further analysis.

What were the results of the proximate analysis?

The proximate analysis indicated moisture, ash, crude protein, and lipid content, revealing significant differences between the fruit pulp and seed.

What secondary metabolites were identified in the extracts?

The extracts contained phenolics, tannins, and flavonoids, with notable levels of phenolics present in the fruit extract, indicating potential health benefits.

What are the potential medicinal uses of Phoenix pusilla?

Phoenix pusilla shows promise as a source of nutraceuticals and bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic applications, including antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Pharmacognosy of south indian datepalm – phoenix pusilla”. 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) Water:
Water is a vital solvent in numerous biochemical reactions within both the human body and plant systems. It serves as a medium for transporting nutrients, minerals, and waste, thus sustaining life. The study emphasizes the water-soluble extractive properties of plant materials, necessary for evaluating their medicinal qualities.

2) Powder:
Powder refers to the finely ground form of plant material, commonly used to prepare extracts for analysis. In pharmacognosy, powdered samples facilitate the evaluation of phytochemical constituents and their potential therapeutic effects. The process of grinding enhances the surface area, improving solvent extraction efficiency for various tests.

3) Table:
In scientific research, a table organizes data systematically, allowing for easy comparison and interpretation. In this study, tables summarize the results of proximate and phytochemical analyses, highlighting key findings such as moisture contents, extractive values, and concentrations of secondary metabolites, which contribute to a clear understanding of the study's outcomes.

4) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds found in plants, known for their health benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The significance of studying phytochemicals, such as flavonoids and tannins in Phoenix pusilla, lies in their potential uses in developing therapeutic agents. This exploration aids in uncovering natural resources for medicinal applications.

5) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are a subclass of phytochemicals with proven health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. Their presence in the studied plant extracts indicates the potential for therapeutic use. Understanding flavonoid concentrations in Phoenix pusilla contributes to the broader context of herbal medicine and nutraceutical development.

6) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses substances used for diagnosing, treating, or preventing diseases. The historical significance of medicinal plants, such as Phoenix pusilla, highlights their role in traditional practices. This study explores the phytochemical profile of the plant, indicating its potential contributions to modern medicinal formulations and healthcare practices.

7) Drug:
A drug is a chemical substance used for therapeutic purposes, aimed at providing relief or treating medical conditions. The investigation into Phoenix pusilla aims to identify active compounds that can lead to the development of new drugs, emphasizing the importance of traditional knowledge in addressing contemporary health issues.

8) Chennai:
Chennai is the capital city of Tamil Nadu, India, where much of the research on Phoenix pusilla was conducted. As a center for education and scientific study, Chennai's institutions contribute to the exploration of indigenous plants, supporting both academic research and potential applications in the pharmaceutical industry.

9) Species:
Species refer to distinct groups of organisms capable of interbreeding. Understanding different species, such as Phoenix pusilla, is crucial for studying biodiversity and the potential pharmaceutical properties inherent in various plants. Investigating the characteristics and constituents of each species aids in conservation and medicinal utilization.

10) Dish (Dis):
In this context, a dish is used to contain samples during various chemical analyses. The significance of using a standardized dish in experimental protocols ensures comparability and reproducibility of results in scientific investigations. Proper measurement techniques in using dishes also facilitate accurate data collection for study conclusions.

11) Science (Scientific):
Scientific refers to a methodical approach based on observation, experimentation, and analysis. The scientific methodologies employed in the study of Phoenix pusilla are essential to validate traditional claims regarding the plant's medicinal properties, ensuring that findings are credible and replicable.

12) Food:
Food refers to any substance consumed for sustenance. In the context of Phoenix pusilla, aspects of its edibility and nutritional value are explored. The incorporation of food plants into diets underscores the significance of understanding their functional properties, enhancing health and wellness through natural sources.

13) Life:
Life represents the condition that distinguishes organisms from inorganic matter, characterized by growth, reproduction, and response to stimuli. The study highlights the biochemical importance of plant life in sustaining human health, showing how natural compounds can be leveraged for therapeutic purposes affecting overall well-being.

14) Substance:
A substance denotes a particular kind of matter with uniform properties. In pharmacognosy, substances extracted from plants, like those from Phoenix pusilla, are analyzed for their potential health benefits. Understanding the properties of these substances is essential in drug formulation and validating traditional medicinal uses.

15) India:
India has a rich tradition of utilizing medicinal plants, with extensive documentation of ethnomedicinal practices. The study of Phoenix pusilla within the Indian context highlights its traditional uses and potential for modern pharmacological applications, emphasizing the country's vast biodiversity and knowledge of herbal remedies.

16) Fever:
Fever is a common physiological response to infection or illness. Traditional medicine often employs various plant extracts, like those from Phoenix pusilla, for their antipyretic properties. Investigating the pharmacological effects on fever can lead to the development of more effective, natural treatment options.

17) Study (Studying):
A study is a systematic investigation aimed at uncovering trends, properties, and applications of specific subjects. This research on Phoenix pusilla focuses on elucidating its pharmacognostic properties, providing insights into potential therapeutic applications and validating traditional uses through rigorous scientific methodologies.

18) Calculation:
Calculation refers to the process of determining values quantitatively. In the context of this research, calculations are performed to quantify levels of primary and secondary metabolites present in samples. These calculations provide insight into the nutritional and pharmacological potential of Phoenix pusilla.

19) Knowledge:
Knowledge signifies the awareness or understanding of subjects through education or experience. The study enhances knowledge about the phytochemical composition of Phoenix pusilla, contributing to the broader field of pharmacognosy and guiding future research into the application of these natural compounds in medicine.

20) Richness:
Richness in this context denotes the abundance of beneficial compounds present in the plant, such as flavonoids and phenolics. The richness of phytochemicals in Phoenix pusilla is significant for potential medical applications, indicating its valuable role as a source of nutraceuticals that can benefit health.

21) Debility:
Debility refers to a state of weakness or lack of strength, often due to illness. The study examines how components from Phoenix pusilla may address different forms of debility as claimed in traditional medicine. Understanding its therapeutic effects can lead to better management strategies for health conditions.

22) Family:
In biological classification, 'family' groups related species. The family Arecaceae includes various palms, including Phoenix pusilla. Understanding familial relationships helps in studying biodiversity and potential cross-species benefits of compounds discovered in plants, aiding in medicinal research and development.

23) Indian:
Indian references the cultural and biological diversity present in India. The medicinal practices and rich biodiversity found in India, including the use of plants like Phoenix pusilla, underscore the importance of regional traditional knowledge in the development of new therapeutic agents within global health contexts.

24) Glass:
Glass refers to the material used to create laboratory equipment, such as beakers and petri dishes. In the study, glass vessels are essential for isolating and analyzing plant extracts, providing a sterile and controlled environment for conducting chemical reactions and evaluations.

25) Genu:
The term 'genu' refers to a group or classification in the biological context, specifically in taxonomy. Understanding the genus of plants aids researchers in studying evolutionary relationships and identifying characteristics shared among species, contributing to the broader understanding of plant biology and pharmacognosy.

26) Rich (Rch):
Rich indicates an abundance of valuable or beneficial elements. In the context of Phoenix pusilla, the term describes the plant's high levels of phytochemicals that possess various health benefits. This richness can provide insight into the potential uses of the plant in traditional and modern medicine.

27) Sour:
Sour refers to one of the primary tastes perceived when consuming substances. The sour flavor of Phoenix pusilla's fruit is of interest, as taste profiles can influence dietary choices and acceptance of medicinal products. Understanding sensory attributes can enhance the appeal of herbal remedies.

28) Burning sensation:
Burning sensation refers to a physical feeling often associated with irritation or inflammation. Some medicinal plants, including Phoenix pusilla, are traditionally used to alleviate such sensations. Investigating these effects can support the development of natural treatments for conditions causing discomfort or irritation in the body.

29) Human body:
The human body is the biological structure that needs nutrients for health and survival. Studying extracts from plants like Phoenix pusilla focuses on their phytochemical effects on the human body, exploring potential health benefits and therapeutic roles in treating various medical conditions.

30) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological relates to the study of drugs and their effects on living systems. This research into Phoenix pusilla evaluates its pharmacological potential by identifying bioactive compounds and their therapeutic effects, contributing to the development of new medicinal treatments based on traditional practices.

31) Purification:
Purification refers to the process of removing impurities or unwanted substances. In the context of plant extract preparation, purification is essential to isolate active compounds for analysis. Effective purification methods are crucial for achieving reliable results in understanding a plant's medicinal properties.

32) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a biological response to harmful stimuli and is often associated with pain and discomfort. The anti-inflammatory properties of plants like Phoenix pusilla are studied to determine their potential effectiveness in treating conditions characterized by inflammation, contributing to the development of natural remedies.

33) Discussion:
Discussion in a research context involves interpreting results and providing insights into findings. This study on Phoenix pusilla includes discussions of its phytochemical properties and implications for drug development, helping to contextualize results within existing literature and guiding future research directions.

34) Tamilnadu (Tamil-nadu):
Tamil Nadu is a state in India rich in biodiversity and traditional medicinal practices. The study of Phoenix pusilla in Tamil Nadu highlights the cultural significance and regional knowledge surrounding this plant, indicating its importance in local health practices and potential contributions to modern medicine.

35) Observing:
Observing involves closely examining and taking note of details during experiments. In this study, observing reactions and outcomes during phytochemical analyses is crucial for gathering accurate data, contributing to the overall reliability and credibility of research findings.

36) Activity:
Activity refers to the effectiveness of a substance in producing a desirable effect. The study measures the biological activity of Phoenix pusilla's extracts, exploring their potential therapeutic roles. Understanding these activities is vital for validating the use of medicinal plants in treating various health conditions.

37) Quality:
Quality in this context pertains to the properties and characteristics that determine the effectiveness of a substance, especially regarding safety and efficacy in pharmacological applications. Evaluating the quality of Phoenix pusilla's extracts helps ensure their potential use in medicine aligns with safety standards.

38) Heating:
Heating refers to the application of temperature, often used in extraction processes to facilitate the release of compounds from plant materials. Understanding temperature control during experiments ensures optimal extraction and preserves the integrity of bioactive compounds for analysis.

39) Disease:
Disease denotes a pathological condition that disrupts normal bodily functions, often requiring treatment. Exploring the effects of Phoenix pusilla in disease management highlights its potential utilization in addressing health issues and developing natural therapeutic agents based on traditional knowledge.

40) Mineral:
Minerals are inorganic substances critical to health, influencing bodily functions and maintaining homeostasis. The study of Phoenix pusilla's mineral content contributes to understanding its nutritional value, supporting the plant's role in traditional diets and potential uses in modern nutritional therapies.

41) Coconut (Cocoanut):
Coconut is a well-known fruit with both nutritional and medicinal properties, often mentioned in the context of health benefits in traditional medicine. In the broader study of medicinal palms like Phoenix pusilla, understanding the benefits of coconuts emphasizes the importance of tropical plants in health care.

42) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Burning commonly refers to a sensation experienced when tissues are irritated, a condition that certain plants may help alleviate. The potential use of Phoenix pusilla in providing relief from burning sensations reinforces its relevance in therapeutic applications and natural remedies.

43) Bitter:
Bitter is one of the basic tastes often associated with various phytochemicals and medicinal plants. The bitter flavor of certain components in plants like Phoenix pusilla can indicate their potential health benefits and influence how they are utilized in traditional remedies and pharmaceuticals.

44) Nature:
Nature embodies the natural environment and its processes, encompassing both flora and fauna. Studying plants like Phoenix pusilla views their natural properties and relationships to human health, illuminating the importance of preserving biodiversity for potential future medicinal discoveries.

45) Cotton:
Cotton is a soft, fluffy fiber derived from the cotton plants. While it's not the primary focus of the study, the mention of cotton in the context of other palms may illustrate the versatility of plant materials, fostering an understanding of different agricultural products and their uses.

46) Kanji (Kamji):
Kanji, a dish made from tender parts of certain palms, represents the edible aspect of Phoenix pusilla. Highlighting the consumption of its palm demonstrates the cultural significance of the plant and enhances the understanding of how traditional diets incorporate local flora into sustenance.

47) Honey:
Honey is a natural sweetener known for its health benefits and is often associated with various medicinal properties. References to honey in herbal medicine suggest a potential for synergistic effects when combined with phytochemicals from plants like Phoenix pusilla, enhancing health applications.

48) Edema (Oedema):
Edema refers to swelling caused by excess fluid accumulation in tissues. The traditional use of Phoenix pusilla in addressing conditions like edema reflects the broader scope of employing plant-based remedies for physiological complaints, guiding pharmacological research into herbal treatments.

49) Tamil:
Tamil refers to the language and culture of the Tamil people, particularly in Tamil Nadu, India. The connection to Tamil emphasizes the importance of regional knowledge and language preservation in documenting traditional uses and wisdom related to medicinal plants like Phoenix pusilla.

50) Hema (Heman):
Hema likely symbolizes a researcher or contributor in the context of the study. This reference underscores the collaborative nature of scientific research, indicating contributions from various individuals that enhance the understanding of the plant's pharmacognostic properties.

51) Nadu:
Nadu is a suffix commonly associated with regions in South India, indicating a place of significance. Its inclusion underscores the geographical and cultural context of the study, attributing the rich heritage of medicinal plant usage to specific locations, particularly in Tamil Nadu.

52) Wool:
Wool, derived from sheep, is noted for its warmth and insulation properties. While not directly related to the study of Phoenix pusilla, references to textiles may reflect the utility and cultural practices surrounding plant materials, enhancing the narrative of the versatility and significance of local flora.

53) Tree:
The term 'tree' signifies a vital part of ecosystems that provides oxygen, habitat, and resources. In discussing Phoenix pusilla, understanding its growth habit, as a palm or tree-like structure, offers insights into its ecological role and the environmental context of where it thrives.

54) Diet:
Diet encompasses the food and drink consumed regularly to support health and growth. The inclusion of Phoenix pusilla in diets underlines its nutritional importance and reinforces the interconnection between food sources, traditional medicine, and the role of plants in promoting health.

55) Male:
Male refers to the reproductive sex in dioecious plants like Phoenix pusilla. Understanding the plant's reproductive characteristics is essential in botanical studies, ensuring comprehensive insights into its life cycle and cultivation practices, which may influence its availability for medicinal uses.

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