Abstract

PHYTOCHEMICAL, MINERAL COMPOSITION SCREENING AND PHARMACOGNOSTIC EVALUATION OF HIBISCUS ESCULENTUS ROOT FROM MAHARASHTRA

Pradeep C. Dave* and Bharatkumar N. Dave

Abstract

The different species of hibiscus belong to Malvaceae family. These are shrubs found all around the globe. Hibiscus rosa and Hibiscus sabdarrifa are known to have many medicinal applications but Hibiscus esculentus also has medicinal value and is comparatively less studied. This study focuses on Phytochemical, Pharmacognostic, Metal and Heavy metal evaluation of H.esculentus roots. This would help further exploration of medicinal properties of plant. This study will contribute to standardization of H.esculentus root powder material for ayurvedic pharmacopeia. Tests for Phytoconstituents such as Alkaloids, Flavinoids, Tanins and Phenolics, Saponins and Cardiac glycosides were done using root powder extract. Metal and Heavy metal composition was determined by Atomic Emission Spectroscopy – ICP method. Pharmacognostic evaluation was done by determining physical charecteristics of root powder such as colour, odour, taste and Total Ash content, Acid Insoluble Ash, Water soluble extractives, Moisture and Microscopic study was done. Phytochemical screening showed presence of Flavinoids and Saponins in plant root. Screening for metal composition showed that there was good amount of Calcium, Potassium, Magnesium. Moderate amounts of metals such as Sodium, Iron, Copper, Mangnese, and Zinc. Traces of Nickel, Cobalt, Cadmium and Lead. The heavy metals are within the the range specified by WHO and FDA. Physical examination of H. esculentus root powder showed that the powder was light brown in color with sweet odor and tasteless. Also Pharmacognostic evaluation revealed that the Total Ash Content 3.95 % W/W, Acid insoluble Ash 0.02% W/W, Water soluble extractive 96 % W/W, and Moisture content 6.93 % W/W.

Keywords: Hibiscus esculentus, Phytochemical Screening, Mineral composition, Pharmacognostic evaluation.