Abstract

PHARMACOGNOSTIC INSIGHTS AND EXTRACTIVE PROFILE OF TRACHYSPERMUM AMMI (L.) SPRAGUE FRUITS THROUGH HPTLC TECHNIQUES

Ayman Kirmani, Rasikh Javaid*, M. Aslam, Abdul Wahab, Aisha Siddiqui and Faiza Mukhtar

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Abstract

Trachyspermum ammi (L.) Sprague, known as Ajwain or Bishop's weed, is a member of the Apiaceae family. Its fruits yield an essential oil that is rich in thymol (35-60%), a compound known for its numerous medicinal benefits, including antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. This study offers a thorough pharmacognostic evaluation of T. ammi fruits, detailing their morphological, histological, and physiochemical characteristics. Various extraction methods, including cold maceration and successive extraction using solvents of increasing polarity (petroleum ether, chloroform, ethanol, and water), were employed to analyze the extractive values and chemical constituents. The aqueous extracts were subjected to HPTLC fingerprinting using a solvent system of toluene, ethyl acetate, and formic acid (7:2:1), revealing distinct thymol peaks at 366 nm. The findings contribute to the standardization of T. ammi, providing essential data for establishing pharmacopoeial guidelines and ensuring quality control of herbal medicines.

Keywords: Pharmacognostical Examinations, Standardization, Trachyspermum Ammi (L.) Sprague. Hptlc.