studies on phytochemical constituents of medicinal plants
TRANSCRIPT
Sciknow Publications Ltd. AJPPS 2014, 1(4):61-74 American Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences DOI: 10.12966/ajpps.12.01.2014 ©Attribution 3.0 Unported (CC BY 3.0)
Studies on Phytochemical Constituents of Medicinal Plants
Gaurav Kumar Sharma1,*
, Abhishek Yogi2, Bhavesh Joshi
1, Kalpesh Gaur
1 and Ashok Dashora
1
1Geetanjali Institute of Pharmacy, Geetanjali University, Hiranmagri Extension, Manwakhera, NH-8 Bypass, Near Eklingpura Chouraha, Udaipur-313002, Rajasthan (India)
2Theon Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Saini Mazra, Nalagarh- 174 101, Dist. Solan, Himachal Pradesh (India)
*Corresponding author (Email: [email protected])
Abstract - Tannins, phlobatannins, saponins, flavonoids, terpenoids, cardiac glycosides and alkaloids distribution in poly herbal
preparation, where each medicinal plant belongs to different families were examined and compared. The plants used are Justica
adhatoda Linn, Momordica charantia, Nordostachys jatamansi and Tephrosia purpurea. Qualitative analysis carried out on each
plant shows that terpenoids, steroids, cardiac glycosides, saponins, flavonoids, tannins and phenolic compound, alkaloids were
present in all the plants. Coumerin glycosides were found to be present in Nordostachys jatamansi and Justica adhatoda only and
were absent in the rest of the plants. Anthraquinone glycosides were present in Justica adhatoda Linn, Momordica charantia and
Nordostachys jatamansi and found to be absent in Tephrosia purpurea. The significance of the phytochemical constituents with
the respect to the role of these plants in traditional medicine treatment is discussed.
Keywords - Medicinal Plants, Traditional Medicine, Phytochemical Constituents, Soxhlet Apparatus
1. Introduction
The medicinal plants contains bioactive phytochemical constituents that produce definite physiological action on the human
body [1].The most important bioactive phytochemical constituents are alkaloids, essential oils, flavonoids, tannins, terpenoid,
saponins, phenolic compounds and many more [2].
Phytochemical is a natural bioactive compound found in plants, such as vegetables, fruits, medicinal plants, flowers, leaves
and roots that work with nutrients and fibers to act as an defense system against disease or more accurately, to protect against
disease. Phytochemicals are divided into two groups, which are primary and secondary constituents; according to their functions
in plant metabolism. Primary constituents comprise common sugars, amino acids, proteins and chlorophyll while secondary
constituents consists of alkaloids, terpenoids and phenolic compounds [3] and many more such as flavonoids, tannins and so on.
Justica adhatoda Linn, Momordica charantia, Nordostachys jatamansi and Tephrosia purpurea are chosen to study because
they come in abundant source, easily available, and some of them are already being utilized in traditional medicine. By studying
the presence of phytochemical in these plants, the uses of these plants in traditional treatment can be explained scientifically.
Fruit of Momordica charantia contains terpenoids, steroids, cardiac glycosides, anthraquinine glycosides, saponins,
flavonoids, tannins and phenolic compound, alkaloids which possess anti-fertility, uterine stimulant, hypoglycemic, inhibit
prostate tumor growth and analgesic activity.
Rhizomes of Nardostachys jatamansi contains terpenoids, steroids ,cardiac glycosides, anthraquinine glycosides, saponins,
coumarin glycosides, flavonoids, tannins and phenolic compound, alkaloids Constituents which possessantiarrythmic,
hypotensive,stimulant,antispasmodic,diuretic,deobstruent,emmenagogue, stomachic, laxative, tranquilizer, anticonvulsant,
hypolipidamic activity.
Justica adhatoda contains terpenoids, steroids, cardiac glycosides, anthraquinone glycosides, saponins, coumaringlycosides,
flavonoids, tannins, phenolic compound and alkaloids which possess antibacterial, anticholinesterase, wound healing,
hypoglycemic, abortifacient, antitussive, digestive, cardio protective, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic and
antituberculer activity.
Tephrosia purpurea contains terpenoids, steroids, cardiac glycosides, saponins, flavonoids, tannins and phenolic compound
and alkaloids which possess anti-inflammatory, anti ulcer, hepatoprotective, antidiarrhoeal, anthelmintic, alexeteric, antipyretic,
antibacterial, antimicrobial, antihyperglycemic, immunomodulatory and antiallergic activity.
62 American Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (2014) 61-74
2. Materials and Methods
2.1. Collection of plant samples
Fruit of Momordica charantia, rhizomes of Nardostachys jatamansi, Justica adhatoda and Tephrosia purpurea were procured
from Local market Jaipur.
2.1.1. Processing of plant samples
All the materials were shade dried at room temperature and powdered mechanically and passed through a sieve # 40. The
powdered form of these plants is stored in airtight glass containers, protected from sunlight until required for analysis.
2.1.2. Preparation of aqueous extract of plant samples Extraction [4]
The air-dried parts of the plants were powdered and extracted with 95% ethanol, chloroform, pet ether (40º-60
º) and aqueous
solvent systems by hot percolation method by using Soxhlet apparatus assembly at a controlled temperature. After complete
extraction, marc was pressed to collect the micelle, mixed with the contents of RBF, filtered and concentrated to get the extract.
The color and consistency of the extract was noted. This extract was further subjected to phytochemical investigation.
2.2. Phytochemical analysis
Chemical tests are conducted on the extract of each plant sample and also of the powdered form of the plant samples using
standard methods.
2.2.1. Qualitative analysis on phytochemical constituents- Qualitative Chemical Tests [5]
2.2.1.1. Tests for Carbohydrates:
Preparation of test solution: The test solution was prepared by dissolving the test extract with water. Then it was hydrolyzed with
1 volume of 2N HCl and subjected to following chemical tests.
a) Molish's test (General test): To 2-3 ml aqueous extract, added few drops of -naphthol solution in alcohol, shaken and added
concentrated H2SO4 from sides of the test tube was observed for violet ring at the junction of two liquids.
b) Fehling's test: 1 ml Fehling's A and 1ml Fehling's B solutions was mixed and boiled for one minute. Equal volume of test
solution was added. Heated in boiling water bath for 5-10 min was observed for yellow, then brick red precipitate.
c) Benedict's test: Equal volume of Benedict's reagent and test solution in test tube were mixed. Heated in boiling water
bath for 5 min. Solution may appear green, yellow or red depending on amount of reducing sugar present in test solution.
d) Barfoed's test: Equal volume of Barfoed's reagent and test solution were added. Heated for 1-2 min, in boiling water bath
and cooled. Observed for red precipitate.
e) Cobalt-chloride test: 3 ml of test solution was mixed with 2 ml cobalt chloride, boiled and cooled. Added FeCl3 drops on
NaOH solution. Solution observed for greenish blue (glucose), purplish (Fructose) or upper layer greenish blue and
lower layer purplish (Mixture of glucose and fructose).
f) Tests for Non-Reducing Sugars: Test solution does not give response to Fehling's and Benedict's test.
g) Tannic acid test for starch: With 20% tannic acid, test solution was observed for precipitate.
2.2.1.2. Tests for Proteins:
Preparation of Test Solution: The test solution was prepared by dissolving the extract in water.
a) Biuret test (General test): To 3 ml T.S added 4% NaOH and few drops of 1% CUSO4 solution observed for violet or pink
colour.
b) Million's test (for proteins): Mixed 3 ml T.S. with 5 ml Million's reagent, white precipitate obtained. Precipitate warmed
turns brick red or precipitate dissolves giving red colour was observed.
c) Xanthoprotein test (For protein containing tyrosine or tryptophan): Mixed 3ml T.S. with 1 ml concentrated H2SO4 observed
for white precipitate.
d) Precipitation test: The test solution gave white colloidal precipitate with following reagents: Absolute alcohol, 5% HgCl2
solution, 5% CUSO4 solution, 5% lead acetate, 5% ammonium sulphate.
2.2.1.3. Tests for Steroids:
Preparation of test extracts solution: The extracts were refluxed separately with alcoholic solution of potassium hydroxide till
complete saponification. The saponified extract was diluted with water and unsaponifiable matter was extracted with diethyl
ether. The ethereal extract was evaporated and the residue (unsaponifiable matter) was subjected to the following test by dissolving
the residue in the Chloroform.
American Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (2014) 61-74 63
a) Salkowski reaction: To 2 ml of extract, 2 ml chloroform and 2 ml concentrated H2SO4 was added. Shook well, whether
chloroform layer appeared red and acid layer showed greenish yellow fluorescence was observed.
b) Libermann-Burchard test: Mixed 2ml extract with chloroform. Added 1-2 ml acetic anhydride and 2 drops concentration
H2SO4 from the side of test tube observed for first red, then blue and finally green colour.
c) Libermann's test: Mixed 3 ml extract with 3 ml acetic anhydride. Heated and cooled. Added few drops concentrated H2SO4
observed for blue colour.
2.2.1.4. Tests for Amino Acids:
a) Ninhydrin test (General test): 3 ml T.S. and 3 drops 5% Ninhydrin solution were heated in boiling water bath for 10 min.
Observed for purple or bluish colour.
b) Test for Tyrosine: Heated 3 ml T.S. and 3 drops Million's reagent. Solution observed for dark red colour.
c) Test for tryptophan: To 3 ml T.S. added few drops glycoxalic acid and concentrated H2SO4 observed for reddish violet ring
at junction of the two layers.
2.2.1.5. Tests for Glycosides:
Preparation of test solution: The test solution was prepared by dissolving extract in the alcohol or hydro-alcoholic solution. Tests for Cardiac Glycosides:
a) Baljet's test: A test solution observed for yellow to orange colour with sodium picrate.
b) Bromine water test: Test solution dissolved in bromine water giving yellow precipitate
c) Legal's test (For cardenoloids): To aqueous or alcoholic test solution, added 1ml pyridine and 1 ml sodium nitroprusside
observed for pink to red colour.
d) Test for deoxysugars (Kellar Killani test): To 2 ml extract added glacial acetic acid, one drop of 5% FeCl3 and
concentrated H2SO4 observed for reddish brown colour at junction of the two liquid and upper layers bluish green.
e) Libermann's test (For bufadenolids): Mixed 3 ml extract with 3 ml acetic anhydride. Heated and cooled. Added few drops
concentrated H2SO4 observed for blue colour.
Test for anthraquinone glycosides:
a) Modified Borntrager's test: C-glycosides of anthraquinones require more drastic conditions for hydrolysis.Hydrolysis of
the drug was carried out with 5 ml of dilute HCl and 5 ml of 5% solution of FeCl3.
b) Borntrager's test: Boiled powdered drug with 5 ml of 10% sulphuric acid for 5 mins. Filtered while hot, cooled the filtrate
shaken gently with equal volume of benzene. Benzene layer was separated and then treated with half of its volume
solution of ammonia (10%). Allowed to separate it. The ammonical layer acquired rose pink colour due to the presence
of anthraquinones.
Cyanogenetic glycosides:
Grignard's test: Strips of sodium picrate filter paper were inserted between split cork stopper which was fitted in to the neck of
the test tube containing a small amount of powdered drug in water. Care was exercised that the paper didn't touch the inner side
of the test tube. The content was warmed for half an hour. The red colour of the strips indicated the presence of cyanogenetic
glycosides.
Tests for Saponin Glycosides:
a) Foam test: The drug extract or dry powder was shaken vigorously with water. Persistent foam was observed.
b) Foaming index: Weigh 1 gm of finely powdered drug accurately and transfer to a 500 ml conical flask containing 100ml
of boiling water. Maintain at moderate boiling for 30 min. Cool and filter into a 100 ml volumetric flask and add
sufficient water to make the volume to 100 ml.
Place the above decoction into 10 stoppered, graduated test-tubes in a series of successive portions of 1, 2, 3 upto 10 ml and
adjust the volume of the liquid in each test tube water to 10 ml. Stopper the tubes and shake them vertically for 15 seconds, 2
frequencies/ sec. Allow to stand for 15 min and measure the height of the foam.
The results assed as follows:
a) If the height of the foam in every tube is less than 1 cm, the foaming index is less than 100.
b) If a height of foam of 1 cm is measured in any tube, the volume of the plant material decoction in this tube (a) is used to
determine the index. If this tube is the first or second tube in the series, prepare an intermediate dilution in a similar
manner to obtain a more precise result.
c) If the height of the foam is more than 1 cm in every tube, the foaming index is over 1000. In this case repeat the
determination using a new series of dilution of the decoction in order to obtain a result.
Foaming Index = 100/a (1)
a = volume in ml of the decoction used for preparing dilution in the tube where foaming to a height of 1 cm is observed.
c) Haemolytic test: Added test solution to one drop of blood placed on glass slide. Haemolytic zone whether appeared was
64 American Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (2014) 61-74
observed.
Tests for Coumarin Glycosides: Test solution when made alkaline, observed for blue or green fluorescence.
2.2.1.6. Tests for Alkaloids:-
a) Dragendorff's test: To 2-3 ml filtrate added few drops Dragendorff's reagent observed for orange brown precipitate.
b) Mayer's test: 2-3 ml filtrate with few drops Mayer's reagent observed for precipitate.
c) Hager's test: 2-3 ml filtrate with Hagers reagent observed for yellow precipitate.
d) Wagner's test: 2-3 ml filtrate with few drops of Wagner's reagent observed reddish brown precipitate.
2.2.1.7. Tests for Flavonoids:-
The flavonoids are all structurally derived from the parent substance called flavone. The flavonoids occur in the free form as
well as bound to sugars as glycosides. For this reason, when analyzing flavonoids it is usually better to examine the flavonoids in
hydrolyzed plant extracts.
Preparation of test solution:
a) To a small amount of extract added equal volume of 2M HCl and heated in a test tube for 30 to 40 min. at 100ºC.
b) The cooled extract was filtered, and extracted with ethyl acetate.
c) The ethyl acetate extract was concentrated to dryness, and used to test for flavonoids.
a) Shinoda test: To dried powder or extract, added 5 ml 95% ethanol, few drops concentrated HCl and 0.5 g magnesium
turnings. Pink colour was observed.
To small quantity of residue, added lead acetate solution observed for Yellow coloured precipitate. Addition of
increasing amount of sodium hydroxide to the residue whether showed yellow colouration, which was decolorized after
addition of acid was observed.
b) Ferric chloride test: Test solution, added few drops of ferric chloride solution observed for intense green colour.
2.2.1.8. Test for Vitamins:
a) Test for Vitamin A: Dissolve a quantity equivalent to 10-15 units in 1ml chloroform and add 5ml of antimony trichloride
solution, a transient blue colour is produced immediately.
b) Test for vitamin C (Ascorbic acid):- Dilute 1 ml of 2% w/v solution with 5 ml of water and added 1 drop of freshly
prepared 5% w/v solution of sodium nitroprusside and 2 ml dilute NaOH solution. Added 0.6 ml of hydrochloric acid
dropwise and stir, the yellow color turns blue.
c) Test for Vitamin D: Dissolved a quantity equivalent to about 100 units of Vitamin D, activating in chloroform and
added 10 ml of antimony tricohloride solution, a pinkish-red colour appeared at once.
2.2.1.9. Saponins
Preparation of test solution: The test solution was prepared by dissolving extract in the water.
a) Foam test: Test solution when shaken showed the formation of foam, which was stable for at least 15 min.
b) Haemolysis test: 2 ml of 18% sodium chloride in 2 test tubes was taken, to one test tube added distilled water and to other
2 ml test solution. Few drops of blood were added to both the test tubes. Mixed and observed for haemolysis under
microscope.
c) Test for steroidal saponins: The extract was hydrolyzed with dilute sulphuric acid and extracted with chloroform. The
chloroform layer was tested for sterols.
d) Test for triterpenoid and saponins: The extract was hydrolyzed with dilute sulphuric acid and extracted with chloroform.
The chloroform layer was tested for triterpenoids.
2.2.1.10. Tannins and phenol compounds
To 2-3 ml of alcoholic or aqueous extract, added few drops of following reagents:
a) 5% FeCl3 solution: Deep blue-black colour.
b) Lead acetate solution: White precipitate.
c) Bromine water: Discoloration of bromine water.
d) Acetic acid solution: Red colour solution.
e) Dilute iodine solution: Transient red colour.
One drop NH4OH, excess 10% AgNO3 solution. Heated for 20 min in boiling water bath. White precipitate was observed,
then dark silver mirror deposited on wall of test tube.
2.3. Abbreviations and Tables
American Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (2014) 61-74 65
Table 1. Summary of plants and solvent used for extraction
S. No. Drug Weight of drug Taken Solvent Volume of Solvent Taken
1. M. charantia 900 grams Petroleum ether 2.5 lit.
2. 900 grams Chloroform 2.5 lit.
3. 900 grams Ethanol 2.5 lit.
4. 900 grams Aqueous 2.5 lit.
5. N. jatamansi 500 grams Petroleum ether 2.5 lit.
6. 500 grams Chloroform 2.5 lit.
7. 500 grams Ethanol 2.5 lit.
8. 500 grams Aqueous 2.5 lit.
9. J. adhatoda 400 grams Petroleum ether 2.0 lit.
10. 400 grams Chloroform 2.0 lit.
11. 400 grams Ethanol 2.0 lit.
12. 400 grams Aqueous 2.0 lit.
13. T. purpurea 500 grams Petroleum ether 2.5 lit.
14. 500 grams Chloroform 2.5 lit.
15. 500 grams Ethanol 2.5 lit.
16. 500 grams Aqueous 2.5 lit.
Table 2. The percentage (%) yield after extraction
S.No. Drug Solvent % Yields
1. M. charantia Petroleum ether 6.78
2. Chloroform 04.44
3. Ethanol 06.30
4. Aqueous 25.00
5. N. jatamansi Petroleum ether 06.11
6. Chloroform 04.33
7. Ethanol 03.80
8. Aqueous 11.60
9. J. adhatoda Petroleum ether 07.50
10. Chloroform 11.75
11. Ethanol 06.75
12. Aqueous 13.75
13. T. purpurea Petroleum ether 07.50
14. Chloroform 04.50
15. Ethanol 06.00
16. Aqueous 15.00
Table 3. Qualitative Analysis on Phytochemical Constituents
Test
Pet. Ether Extract Chloroform Extract
M.
charantia N. jatamansi J. Adhatoda T. purpurea M.charantia
N.
jatamansi J. Adhatoda T. purpurea
I Test for Carbohydrate
A Molish Test - - - + - - - +
B
Test for
reducing sugars
Fehling
Test - - - + - - - +
Benedict test
- - - + - - + +
C Test for
Monosaccharide
Barfoeds Test
- + - - - + - -
D
Test For
Hexose
Sugars
Cobalts
Chloride test - - - - - - - +
E Test for Non- Reducing Sugars
- - - - - - - +
66 American Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (2014) 61-74
F
Test for Non-
Reducing
polysaccharide
Iodine test - + - + - + - +
Tannic acid test - + - + - + - +
II Test for Proteins
Biuret test - - + + - - - -
Millon’s test - - + - - - - -
Xanthoprotein + + + - + + + +
Test for protins
containing Sulphur - - - - - - - -
Precipitation test
+ + + + + + + +
III Test for
Amino Acid
Ninhydrin test + + + + + + + +
Test for tyrosin
- - + - + - -
Test for tryptophan - - + - + - - -
Test for
cysteine - + + - + - + -
IV Test for Steroids
Liebermann-
Buchard + - + - - - + +
Liebermann reaction + - + - + + + +
V Test for Terpenoids
Liebermann-
Buchard + - + - + + + +
Liebermann reaction + - + - + + + +
VI Test for Glcosides
A Test for
Cardiac Glycoside
Baljet test - + + - + + + +
Legal’s test - - - - - - - -
Test for deoxy sugar
(Keller killani test) - + - - - + - +
Liebermann’s test (Bufadienolides)
- + + - - - + +
B
Test for
Anthraquinone
glycoside
- - + - + - - -
C Test for
Saponin Glycoside - + - - + + - +
D Test for Coumarin
Glycoside - - - - - - + -
VII Test For Flavanoids
Ferric chloride test - - - - - + + +
Shinoda test + + + - + + + +
Alkaline
reagents + + - - + - - +
Lead acetate test + + + - + + + +
VIII Test for alkaloids + - + + + + + -
IX
Test for
Tannins & Phenolic cpd.
- + + - + + + +
X Test For Lipids + - - - - - - -
Test
Alcohol Extract Aqueous Extract
M. charantia
N. jatamansi J. Adhatoda T. purpurea M. charantia
N. jatamansi
J. Adhatoda T. purpurea
I Test for
Carbohydrate
A Molish Test - + - + + + + +
B
Test for reducing
sugars
Fehling Test
- - + + + + - +
Benedict
test - - + + + + + +
C Test for
American Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (2014) 61-74 67
Monosaccharide
Barfoeds
Test - - + + + - - +
D
Test For
Hexose
Sugars
Cobalts Chloride test
- - + + + + + +
E Test for Non-
Reducing Sugars - - + + + + + +
F
Test for Non- Reducing
polysaccharide
Iodine test - + + + + + - +
Tannic acid test - + + + + + - +
II Test for Proteins
Biuret test - + + + + + + +
Millon’s test - + + + + - - -
Xanthoprotein - + + + + + + -
Test for protins containing Sulphur
- - - - - - - -
Precipitation
test + + + + + + + +
III Test for Amino Acid
Ninhydrin test + + + + + + + +
Test for
tyrosin - + + + + - + -
Test for tryptophan + + + - + - + -
Test for
cysteine + + + - + + + -
IV Test for Steroids
Liebermann- Buchard
+ - - - - - + +
Liebermann reaction + - - - - - + +
V Test for Terpenoids
Liebermann- Buchard
+ - - - - - + +
Liebermann reaction - - - - - - + +
VI Test for
Glcosides
A Test for Cardiac Glycoside
Baljet test - + + - - + + +
Legal’s test - + + - - - + -
Test for deoxy sugar (Keller killani test)
- + + - - + - +
Liebermann’s
test (Bufadienolides) - + + - - + + +
B
Test for Anthraquinone
glycoside
- + + - - - + -
C Test for Saponin Glycoside
- + + - - + - -
D Test for Coumarin
Glycoside - + + - - - - -
VII Test For Flavanoids
Ferric chloride test - + + - - - - -
Shinoda test - + + - + + + -
Alkaline
reagents - + + - + + - -
Lead acetate test - + + - + + + -
VIII Test for alkaloids - + + + + + + -
IX
Test for
Tannins & Phenolic
cpd.
- + + + - + + +
X Test For Lipids + + + + - - - -
Presence of phytochemical constituents: +; Absence of phytochemical constituents: -.
68 American Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (2014) 61-74
3. Results and Discussion
3.1. Qualitative analysis
All the four plants and their parts selected for the present studies were powdered after shade drying. The powdered plant material
was placed into a five liter conical flask with different solvents viz. petroleum ether, chloroform, ethanol and distilled water for
extraction. The quantities of solvent and powdered drug used are shown in Table 1. The dried extracts were weighed, percent
yield is calculated the results of which is given in Table 2. Adopting standard procedures carried out preliminary phytochemical
investigation to assess presence or absence of various phytoconstituents like carbohydrates, proteins, amino acids, sterols,
triterpenes, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids and lipids. The results of phytochemical studies are shown in Table 3.
3.1.1. Justica adhatoda Linn:
Effect of terpenoids, steroids, cardiac glycosides, anthraquinine glycosides, saponins, coumarin glycosides, flavonoids, tannins
and phenolic compound, alkaloids
N
N
O
HO
N
N
OH
HO
N
N
HO Vasicinone (a) 6-Hydroxy peganine (b) Vasicine (c)
N
N
OH
O
OMe
N
N
OHOMe
HN
N
OH
HO
O
OH
Adhavasinone (d) Adhavasine (e) Vasicol (f)
N
N
O
N CH3
CH3
N
N
N CH3
CH3
N
N
NHCOOCH3
NHCH3
Vasicolinone (g) Vosicoline (h) Adhatodine (i)
N
N
NHCOOCH3
NHCH3
O
N
N
OH
HO
O Anisotine (j) Vasicinolone (k)
Fig. 1. Quinazoline ring containing Constituents of Adhatoda zeylanica
Pharmacological activities: Water and alcoholic extracts of Vasaka exerts significant pharmacological actions due to the
presence of active constituents like vasicine and vasicinone. The pharmacological activities of vasicine and vasicinone are much
more as compared to their racemic forms. Various activities reported are:
Antibacterial: Alcoholic extract of leaves and roots showed antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and
Escherichia coli, whereas water extract showed activity against S. aureus only.
Anticholinesterase: Vasicinone obtained from the roots produced transient hypotension in cats, contraction of isolated
American Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (2014) 61-74 69
intestine and depression of isolated heart in guinea pigs, thus showing good anticholinesterase activity.
Wound healing: The rate of healing was found to be higher in the plant extract treated wounds in buffaloes as compared to
pancreatic tissue extracts.
Hypoglycaemic: Ethanolic extract of the leaves exhibited hypoglycaemic activity in the rats. Modak and Rao found that when
non-nitrogenous principle of the leaves in suspension form administrated orally at the dose of 25 mg/kg, lowered the blood sugar
level of rabbits for a short period of time.
Abortifacient/Oxytocic: Vasicine possesses uterine stimulating and oxytocic activity and causes abortifacient effect by the
release of prostaglandins under the influence of oestrogens. The activity was found almost similar to oxytocin. In a study
conducted on rats, rabbits, hamsters and guinea pigs it was found that vasicine has uterotonic and abortifacient effects possibly
by enhancing the synthesis and release of prostaglandins. In this study dose dependent effect was observed with effective doses
ranging between 2.5-10 mg/kg. However, administration of estradiol dipropionate potentiated the abortifacient effect in guinea
pigs whereas treatment with aspirin inhibited the abortifacient activity due to inhibition of release of prostaglandins.
Antitussive: Vasicine and vasicinone showed bronchodilatory activity in vitro and bronchoconstrictory activity in vivo,
however, combination of both the alkaloids (1:1) showed bronchodilatory activity in vivo as well as in vitro. Evaluation of
antitussive effect of vasaka on anesthetized guinea pigs and rabbits was confirmed electrically and mechanically and found to be
1/20th
and 1/40th
as active as codeine intravenously and almost similar in activity as by oral administration. Kanjang, a fixed
combination of A. zeylanica, Echinacea purpurea (Linn.) Moench and Eleuthrococcus senticosus Maxim showed a significant
efficacy in acute upper respiratory infections.
Digestive: Decoction of the leaves activated the trypsin enzyme in in vitro studies and thus stimulated the digestion process.
Cardioprotective :In combination of vasicine and vasicinone, a significant reduction in cardiac depressant effect was
observed. No effect was shown by vasicinone (dl-form), however l-form was found to be weakly effective in stimulating cardiac
muscles. Anti-inflammatory :Anti-inflammatory activity of methanolic extracts (a non alkaloid fraction, saponins and the alkaloids)
were evaluated by using modified hens egg chorioallantoic membrane showing potent activity at a dose of 50 μg/pellet
equivalent to that of hydrocortisone whereas methanolic extract showed lesser activity [6].
Hepatoprotective:The leaves showed significant hepatoprotective effect at a dose of 50-100 mg/kg on the liver damage
induced by d-galactosamine in rats.
Antiulcer:Leaf powder of this plant showed considerable antiulcer activity in experimental rats in ethanol Induced ulceration
model.
Antimutagenic: Antimutagenic and antioxidant status have also been attributed for A. zeylanica. It exerts antioxidant effect
against lipid peroxide and xanthine oxidase induced oxidation.
Radiomodulation: Leaf extract showed a radiomodulatory influence against radiation induced hematological alterations in
the peripheral blood of swiss albino mice. A significant increase in serum alkaline phosphatase activity and decrease in acid
phosphatase activity was observed in leaf extract pretreated irradiated animals during the entire period of study.
Antituberculer: Growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis was found to be inhibited by benzyl amine, ambroxol, bromhexine
(semi synthetic derivatives of vasicine) due to their mucolytic action. These have ability to concentrate in the macrophages and
enhance the level of lysozyme in bronchial secretions along with level of Rifampicin in the lung tissue and sputum, acting as
adjunctive for the therapy of tuberculosis.
3.1.2. Momordica charantia:
Effect of terpenoids, steroids, cardiac glycosides, anthraquinine glycosides, saponins, flavonoids, tannins and phenolic
compound, alkaloids Constituents:
A bitter glucoside soluble in water, insoluble in ether; a yellow acid resin and ash 6 p.c. Fresh vegetable contains 88.75 p.c.
moisture, and the completely dried material contains Ether extract 2.93 p.c., Albuminoids 1.62 (cont'g. Nitrogen 0.26 p.c.);
soluble carbohydrates 85.41 p.c., woody fiber 1.51 p.c. and Ash 8.53 p.c. (cont'g. Sand 0.17 p.c.) respectively.
Worldwide Ethano botanical Uses [7]:
The fruit and leaf of bitter melon has demonstrated an in vivo anti-fertility effects of female animals. In male animals, it was
reported to affect the production of sperm negatively. The seeds, however, have demonstrated the ability to induce abortions in
rats and mice, and the root has been documented with a uterine stimulant effect in animals [8-12].
Bitter melon contains an array of novel and biologically active phytochemicals including triterpenes, proteins and
steroids. In numerous studies, at least three different groups of constituents found in all parts of bitter melon have clinically
demonstrated hypoglycemic properties (blood sugar lowering) or other actions of potential benefit against diabetes mellitus.
These hypoglycemic chemicals include a mixture of steroidal Saponins known as Charantin, insulin like peptides and
alkaloids [13-22].
The fruit has also shown the ability to enhance cells uptake of glucose [23], to promote insulin release and potentiate the
effect of insulin [24-25].
70 American Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (2014) 61-74
In other in vivo studies, bitter melon fruit and/or seed has been shown to reduce total cholesterol and triglycerides [26-27]
in both the presence and absence of Dietary cholesterol. A chemical analog of bitter melon proteins was developed and named
MAP-30 and its inventors reported that it was able to inhibit prostate tumor Growth [28]. The phytochemical momordin has
clinically demonstrated cytotoxic activity against Hodgkin's lymphoma in vivo [29].
In one study, a water extract blocked the growth of rat prostate Carcinoma [30]; another study reported that a hot water
extract of the entire plant inhibited the development of mammary tumors in mice [31]. Numerous in vitro studies have also
demonstrated the anti-cancerous and anti-leukemic activity of bitter melon against numerous cell lines including liver cancer,
human leukemia, melanoma and solid sarcomas. In an in vivo study, a leaf extract demonstrated the ability to increase
resistant to viral infections as well as to provide an immunostimulant effect in humans and animals (increasing interferon
production and natural killer cell activity) [32].
Two proteins known as alpha- and beta- momocharin (which are present in the seeds, fruits and leaves) have been reported
to inhibit the HIV virus in vitro [33]. The analgesic activity of the methanol extract of the seeds of Momordica charantia in
rats and mice is described. The results demonstrate that the extract exhibited a dose-related analgesic response in mice. Only an
equivocal analgesic response was shown in rats [34].
3.1.3. Nordostachys jatamansi:
Effect of terpenoids, steroids ,cardiac glycosides, anthraquinine glycosides, saponins, coumarin glycosides, flavonoids, tannins
and phenolic compound, alkaloids Constituents-Essential oil, resin, sugar, starch, gum, bitter matter K = rhizomes and roots
contain volatile essential oil .5% oleum jatamansi, resin, sugar, starch, bitter matter, gum, ketone called jatamansone,
sesquiterpee seychelane, and beta-sitosterol. Roots have many compounds viz. valeranone, valeranal, nardolcalarenol,
nardostechone, n-hexacosanyl arachidate, n - hexaconsanol, calarene, n-hexacosane, h-hexacosanyl isovalerate, acosanyl
arachidate, n-hexaconsanol, calarene, norseychelanone, seychellen, patchouli alcohol, hydrocarbons, beta-eudesmol, elemol,
beta-sitosterol, angelicin, jatamansinol.
Worldwide Ethanobotanical Uses
This drug possess antiarrhythmic activity with possible therapeutically usefulness in cases of auricular flutter; it is less
effective than quinidine but has the advantage of being less toxus; oil exerts hypotensive effect and in moderate doses it has a
distinct depressant action on the central nervous system; lethal doses cause deep narcosis and death within a few hours; rhizome
is considered tonic, stimulant, antispasmodic, diuretic, deobstruent, emmenagogue, stomachic, and laxative; infusion of rhizome
is reported to be useful in epilepsy, hysteria, palpitation of heart and chorea; tincture given in intestinal colic and flatulence;
rhizome used as aromatic adjunct in preparation of medicinal oils; reported to promote growth of hair and impart blackness. Folk
and traditional medicines: In India roots are well know tranquilizer and may be used alone or along with Valerian jatamansi (V.
wallichi); infusion of root given in hysteria, palpitation of heart, menopause, and various nervous diseases; in infusion, ammonia,
camphor, or cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) may be added; for treatment of diseases associated with indigestion a compound
preparation consisting of cinnamon, fennel (Foeniculun vulgare), ginger (Zingiber officinalie) and sugar in addition to jatamansi
is used; essential oil from rhizome used in perfumery and has a tranquilizing effect when massaged on head; also applied on
leprous wounds. In ayurveda used in "Mansyadi Kwath" and "Rakshoghna Ghrita" while in Unani. However, one of the most
used in the clinic essential oil is the essential oil of Jatamansi (Spikenard), which is obtained by steam distillation of dried
rhizomes of Nardostachys jatamansi D.C. It is a slightly viscous liquid in appearance and varies from amber to deep blue or
greenish blue colour. The aroma of Jatamansi oil is lingering, heavy, sweet woody and spicy-animal when used in treatment. In
clinical aromatherapy, Jatamansi oil can be employed in the treatment of epilepsy, hysteria and in many varieties of convulsive
affections. It is used in cases of heart palpitations (even as a substitute for Valerian). Its antispasmodic characteristics are
unsurpassed. Tibetan herbalists use Jatamansi oil for the purpose of hair growth and colour restoration. The herb is used in tribal
medicine for incurable skin conditions and is believed to contain anti-ageing properties.
The decoction of the roots and tubers are excellent antidote to all poisons. A paste of the fresh tubers applied to the breasts
acts as an effective galactagogue. The root is often used for developing high memory. This herb also harmonizes the liver, spleen,
and pancreas.
Rao V. S, et al. studied anticonvulsant activity and neurotoxicity of ethanolic extract of the roots of Nardostachys jatamansi
DC. (Valerianaceae) for its, alone and in combination with phenytoin in rats. The results demonstrated a significant increase in
the seizure threshold by Nardostachys jatamansi root extract against maximal electroshock seizure (MES) model as indicated by
a decrease in the extension/flexion (E/F) ratio. The extract was ineffective against pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizures,
also showed minimal neurotoxicity against rotarod test and synergistic action with phenytoin [35].
Salim S, et al. studied the protective effect of Nardostachys jatamansi (NJ) on neurobehavioral activities, thiobarbituric acid
reactive substance (TBARS), reduced glutathione (GSH), thiol group, catalase and sodium-potassium ATPase activities, in
middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion model of acute cerebral ischemia in rats. MCA occlusion caused significant depletion in
the contents of glutathione and thiol group and a significant elevation in the level of TBARS. The study provides first evidence of
effectiveness of NJ in focal ischemia most probably by virtue of its antioxidant property [36].
American Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (2014) 61-74 71
Chatterjee A, et al. studied the structure and stereochemistry of a new terpenoid ester, nardostachysin (1), isolated from the
rhizomes of Nardostachys jatamansi. And those were established as the 7', 8'-dihydroxy-4'-methylene
hexahydrocyclopenta[c]pyran-1'-one-8'-methyl ester of 7, 9-guaiadien-14-oic acid, by spectral and chemical studies [37].
Effects of Nardostachys jatamansi on biogenic amines and inhibitory amino acids in the rat brain were studied. The acute oral
administration of the extract did not change the level of nor epinephrine (NE) and dopamine (DA) but resulted in a significant
increase in the level of serotonin (5-HT) and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA). A significant increase in the level of
gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA) and taurine was observed in the drug-treated groups when compared to the controls. A
15-day treatment resulted in a significant increase in the levels of all biogenic amines. These data indicate that the alcoholic
extract of the roots of N. jatamansi causes an overall increase in the levels of central monoamines and inhibitory amino acids
[38].
Hypolipidaemic effects of Curcuma longa L and Nardostachys jatamansi, DC in triton-induced hyperlipidaemic rats were
measured. Fifty per cent ethanolic extract of Curcuma longa (tuber) and Nardostachys jatamansi (whole plant) feeding elevates
HDL-cholesterol/total cholesterol ratio. The extracts also caused a significant reduction in the ratio of total
cholesterol/phospholipids. Curcuma longa exhibited better cholesterol and triglyceride lowering activity [Ch = -85%; Tg = -88%]
as compared to N. jatamansi in triton-induced hyperlipidaemic rats. In view of the protective action of HDL against heart disease
and atherogenecity, C. longa consumption is recommended [39].
Efficacy of some essential oils and their constituents on few ubiquitous molds was demonstrated. Zentralbl Bakteriol
Naturwiss. Six essential oils of Mentha arvensis, Mentha piperita, Anethum sowa, Cymbopogon winterianus, Nardostachys
jatamansi, and Commiphora mukul were selected and tested for their efficacy against Aspergillus flavus, A. fumigatus, A.
sulphureus, Mucor fragilis, and Rhizopus stolonifer. These oils were fungistatic or fungicidal to one or the other molds,
depending upon the concentrations [40].
Isolated and studied pharmacodynamic activity of the sesquiterpene valeranone from Nardostachys jatamansi DC. In some
experiments, typical for tranquilizers, certain activities could be demonstrated such as the prolongation of barbiturate hypnosis,
the impairment of rotarod performance, an anticonvulsive activity on electric shock and potentiation of the body-temperature
lowering activity of reserpine. In three other pharmacological models an anti-ulcer action was detected. In general, the activity of
valeranone was lower than those of the standard substances used. As regards the hypotensive property, only a weak activity was
demonstrated. In toxicological studies on rats and mice an oral LD50 of greater than 3160 mg/kg was found, which suggests the
possibility of a therapeutically useful dose ratio [41].
3.1.4. Tephrosia purpurea:
Effect of terpenoids, steroids, cardiac glycosides, saponins , flavonoids, tannins and phenolic compound, alkaloids Traditional uses:
The root has a bad bitter taste; enriches the blood, useful in bronchitis, wounds, boils, pimples, liver and spleen diseases,
asthma, inflammation, antiulcer, hepatoprotective, used in poisoning due to snakebite, useful in enlargement of spleen,
antidiarrhoeal. Given in tympanitis, dyspepsia chronic diarrhea and diuretic.
In French Guiana it is used as fish poison. Seeds are used in poisoning due to rat bite. Leaves are useful in Diseases of lungs
and of the chest, tonic to intestines, improve the appetite, good in piles, syphilis, and gonorrhoea.
Whole plant is Digestible, Anthelmintic, Alexeteric, Antipyretic, Cures diseases of liver, spleen, heart, blood, and cures
tumors, ulcers, leprosy, asthma, bronchitis, piles, and caries of the teeth, laxative, and blood purifier.
The white flowered variety is more effective than the red variety. Fresh root bark, ground and made into a pill, with a little
black pepper, is frequently given in cases of obstinate colic. The drug is useful in cough and in derangement of the kidneys. A
decoction of the 1 in 10 was administered in one ounce doses to cases of Blight’s disease with dropsy.
Scientifically validated uses:
Antibacterial activity: Murganathan G et al shows that alcoholic extract of the roots of Tephrosia purpurea have been found to
possess mild antibacterial activity. Deshpande et al shows that antibacterial activity was significant in fresh juice of Tephrosia
purpurea roots but not in aqueous extract of Tephrosia purpurea roots [42]. Mahajan R T et al studied the antibacterial activity of
Tephrosia purpurea on ethanolic and methanolic extracts.
Antimicrobial activity: It has been reported by G S Kumar et al that Tephrosia purpurea (roots) had the greatest antimicrobial
effect against acne-inducing bacteria among many plant species selected. M Gupta et al studied the Antimicrobial activity of
methanol extracts of Plumeria acuminata Ait. leaves and Tephrosia purpurea (Linn.) Pers. roots. Vandana Singh et al show that
antimicrobial effect of Tephrosia purpurea is due to presence of flavonoides. Study of Antimicrobial activity Tephrosia purpurea
(roots) was done by Deshpande shrikalp et al which shows that fresh extract shows antibacterial activity not antifungal activity
by agar well diffusion and R & B agar well diffusion method.
Hepatoprotective activity: Tephrosia purpurea (aerial parts) was evaluated by Ramamurthy M Sree et al for its efficacy in rats
by inducing hepatotoxicity with D-galactosamine HCl (acute) and carbon tetrachloride (chronic). The results of the study
indicated that the administration of Tephrosia purpurea along with the hepatotoxins offered a protective action in both acute (D-
72 American Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (2014) 61-74
galactosamine) and chronic (CCl4) models [11]. A Jain et al reported that Ethanol extract of leaves and flavonoid (isolated from
leaves extract) from Tephrosia purpurea were evaluated for hepatoprotective activity in rats by inducing hepatotoxicity with
carbon tetrachloride and conclude that the hepatoprotective activity was more in ethanolic extract of leaves than isolated
flavonoid. Hepatoprotective activity of a benzopyrone from Tephrosia purpurea Pers. was reported by Shankar, M. B et al [13].
The hepatoprotective activity of the aerial parts of Tephrosia purpurea and stem bark of Tecomella undulata against
thioacetamide-induced hepatotoxicity was proved by Amit Khatria et al [14]. Mitra S K et al reported the protective effect of
HD-03(an herbal formulation) against Tephrosia purpurea in rats. And anticholestatic activity of HD-03(an herbal formulation)
in thioacetamide induced experimental cholestasis. Effect of T purpurea, an herbal hepatoprotective on drug metabolism in
patients of cirrhosis and hepatic enzyme function in experimental liver damage has been reported by Chauhan C K et al.
Antiulcer activity : S S Deshpande et al reported that Pylorus ligation and ethanol induced ulcers study on rats shows
significant protection of Tephrosia purpurea roots in aqueous extract in dose range of 100 – 500 mg/kg p.o. for gastric ulcers and
gastric cytoprotection. Satyabrata Mohapatrab et al reported that the methanolic extract of Tephrosia purpurea showed promising
activity against clinical isolates and standard strains of Helicobacter pylori, including metronidazole-resistant strains.
Free radical scavenging activity: The dried alcoholic extracts of the plant Tephrosia purpurea Linn. was investigated by K
Soni et al for its free radical scavenging activity, hydroxyl radical scavenging activity.
Antihyperglycemic and Antilipid Peroxidative activity: S. Sethupathy et al evaluated the antihyperglycemic and
antilipidperoxidative effects of ethanolic seed extract of Tephrosia purpurea (TpEt) in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Oral
administration of “TpEt” at a dose of 300mg/kg BW showed significant antihyperglcemic and antilipidperoxidative effects as
well as increased the activities of enzymatic antioxidants and levels of nonenzymatic antioxidants [21]. K Soni et al found that
the Tephrosia purpurea dried alcoholic extract showed significant inhibition of lipid peroxidation.
Chemo preventive Potential and Antilipidperoxidative activity: Kavitha, et al. investigates the chemopreventive potential and
antilipidperoxidative effects of ethanolic root extract of Tephrosia purpurea (Linn.) Pers. (TpEt) on 7, 12-
dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA)- induced hamster buccal pouch carcinoma.
Immunomodulatory Activity: The flavonoid fraction of Tephrosia purpurea (FFTP) was studied by A. S. Damre et al for its
effect on cellular and humoral functions and on macrophage phagocytosis in mice. Oral administration of FFTP significantly
inhibited sheep red blood cells (SRBC)-induced delayed-type hypersensitivity reactions. It also produced a significant,
dose-related decrease in sheep erythrocyte-specific haemagglutination antibody titre [24].
Antioxidant Activity: The ethanol extract of Tephrosia purpurea Linn. Was studied by M N Saraf et al and found that ethanol
extract shows significant inhibition of the carbon tetrachloride-induced lipid per oxidation in vivo and superoxide generation in
vivo and the ethyl acetate soluble fraction has improved antioxidant potential than the extract.
Role in Haemopoetic injury: Taraphdar A K et al studied the role of Tephrosia in Haemopoetic injury in Swiss albino mice.
Wound healing Activity: A.K. Singhai et al studied the wound healing potential of ethanolic extract of Tephrosia purpurea
(aerial part) in the form of simple ointment using three types of wound models in rats as incision wound, excision wound and
dead space wound. The results were comparable to standard drug Fluticasone propionate ointment, in terms of wound
contraction, tensile strength, histopathological and biochemical parameters such as hydroxyproline content, protein level, etc.
Antiallergic Activity: The inhibitory effect of ethanolic extract of the aerial parts of T. purpurea was studied by A Gokhale et
al on late-phase allergy by the inhibition of leukotriene synthesis.
Antileishmanial Activity: Y. Guru et al found that Tephrosia purpurea have significant antileishmanial activity, and has been
extensively fractionated to locate the abode of activity. A fraction (F062) obtained from N-butanol extract of T. purpurea showed
consistent antileishmanial activity at 50 mg/ kg × 5 days by oral route against Leishmania donovani infection in hamsters.
Antibiotic Activity: C.L. Abayasekara et al studied the antibiotic activity of the water extracts of roots, leaves, pods and a
combination of these three plant parts of T. purpurea they concluded that the ethanolic root extract of T. purpurea shows
significant activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, two other Pseudomonas strains and two coliform strains.
Antilithiatic Activity: Aqueous extract of the roots of Tephrosia purpurea was evaluated by K.V.S.R.G. Prasad et al for its
antilithiatic activity, in two models of urolithiasis. They report that the effect of aqueous extract of T. purpurea on the excretion
and deposition of various calculi forming constituents like calcium, oxalate, magnesium and phosphate in urine, kidney and
foreign body.
Anti-Asthmatic Activity : Deshpande et al reported that ethyl acetate extract of Tephrosia purpurea roots shows a significant
protection of rat mesenteric mast cells from disruption caused by compound 48/80 was offered by Ethyl acetate extract. The
extract also offered significant protection against mast cell disruption caused by antigen. Ethyl acetate extract did not produce
any significant difference in the count of all the types of WBC detected in the bronchial fluid of sensitized animals compared
with untreated sensitized animals.
Antihyperglycemic Activity: S. Sethupathy et al studied the Antihyperglycemic Activity on ethanolic seed extract of
Tephrosia purpurea (TpEt) in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. They also studied the Hyperglycemia associated with an
altered hexokinase and glucose 6 phosphatase activities, elevated lipid peroxidation, disturbed enzymatic and non-enzymatic
antioxidants status were observed in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. H B N Swift et al studies on the hypoglycemic effect of
American Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (2014) 61-74 73
plant Tephrosia purpurea variety pumila in which rutin was administered by stomach tube to normal and alloxan induced diabetic
rabbits. P Pavana et al reported the Effects of Tephrosia Purpurea Aqueous Seed Extract on Blood Glucose and Antioxidant
Enzyme Activities in Streptozotocin Induced Diabetic Rats.
Antitumor Activity: Saleem et al. have shown that Tephrosia purpurea ameliorates benzoyl peroxide-induced oxidative stress
in murine skin. They investigated a chemopreventive efficacy of T. purpurea against N-diethylnitrosamine-initiated and
potassium bromate-mediated oxidative stress and toxicity in rat kidney. They further assessed the effect of Tephrosia purpurea
on 12-O-tetradecanoyl phorbal-13-acetate (TPA; a well-known phorbol ester) induced cutaneous oxidative stress and toxicity in
murine skin. The pre-treatment of Swiss albino mice with Tephrosia purpurea prior to application of croton oil (phorbol ester)
resulted in a dose-dependent inhibition of cutaneous carcinogenesis.
Anthalmintic Activity: Surve Suvidha S et al studied the Anthalmintic activity of seed part of plant Tephrosia purpurea Linn
using Adult Indian earthworms, Pheretima posthuma.
Insecticidal and Repellent Properties was studied by B. N. Saxena et al on seed extract of Tephrosia purpurea (linn.) pers.
Kiuchi F et al identified the nematocidal principles in the roots of Tephrosia purpurea and showed that rotenoides have strong
nematocidal activity.
4. Conclusion
This research work has revealed further potentials of these four plants in the area of pharmacology as potential source of useful
drugs. This study therefore has provided some biochemical basis for ethno pharmacological uses of these plants in the treatment
and prevention of various diseases and disorders. The phytochemical screening on qualitative analysis shows that the whole plant
of Justica adhatoda Linn , Tephrosia purpurea ,fruits of Momordica charantia and Roots & Rhizomes of Nordostachys jatamansi
are rich in terpenoids, steroids ,cardiac glycosides, saponins, flavonoids, tannins and phenolic compound, alkaloids, which are
popular phytochemical constituents.
Acknowledgment
On the occasion of presenting this article, it is my privilege to express my sincere thanks to my supervisor Dr. Kamal Kumar
Goyal, Department of Pharmacognosy & Phythochemistry, Sri Balaji College Of Pharmacy, Jaipur who has provided excellent
guidance, valuable advices, and shared intelligent thoughts, criticisms and inculcated discipline. I am highly indebted to him for
his valuable presence even in his busy schedule, which helped me to complete this work successfully. I owe a huge debt of
gratitude to Principal Dr. Vikram Sharma for providing me all the facilities and encouragement for the successful completion of
my project work. I extend my profound respect and heartful gratitude to my beloved Parents Specially my father Late. Rajendra
kumar Sharma, and also express my affection to my brother Kapil for their constant love, support, and encouragement
throughout my life.
References
[1] Akinmoladun, A. C., Ibukun, E. O., Afor, E., Obuotor, E. M., Farombi, E. O. (2007). Phytochemical constituent and antioxidant activity of extract from the
leaves of Ocimum gratissimum. Sci. Res. Essay. 2, 163-166.
[2] Edeoga, H. O., Okwu, D. E., Mbaebie, B. O. (2005). Phytochemical Constiuents of some Nigerian medicinal plants. Afri. J. Biotechnol. 4 (7), 685-688. [3] Krishnaiah, D., Sarbatly, R., Bono, A. (2007). Phytochemical antioxidants for health and medicine – A move towards nature. Biotechnol. Mol. Biol. Rev.
1(4), 097-104.
[4] Chatterjee, A., Basak, B., Saha, M., Dutta, U., Mukhopadhyay, C., Banerji, J., Konda, Y., Harigaya, Y. (2000). Structure and stereochemistry of nardostachysin, a new terpenoid ester constituent of the rhizomes of Nardostachys jatamansi. J Nat Prod, 63(11), 1531-15333.
[5] Saxena, V. K., and Choubey, A. (1997). A novel neoflavonoid glycoside from Tephrosia purpurea stem. Fitoterapia. 68(4), 359-360.
[6] Basu, B. D., and Kirtikar, K. R. (1935). Indian Medicinal Plants. 2nd ed. Allahabad (India), Vol II, 1935. p. 1130. [7] Stepka, W., Wilson, K. E., Madge, G. E. (1974). Iloydia. Antifertility investigation on Momordica. Iloydia, 37(4), 645.
[8] Koentjoro-Soehadi, T., Santa, IGP. (1982). Perspectives of male contraception with regards to Indonesian traditional drugs. Proc. Second National
Congress of Indonesian Society of Andrology. 1982; Aug. 2-6: 12. [9] Dixit, V. P., Khanna, P., Bhorgava, S. K. (1978). Effects of Momordica charantia fruit extract on the testicular function of dog. Planta Med, 34, 280-286.
[10] Shum, L. K. W., Coi, V. E. C., Yeung, H. W. (1984). Effects of Momordica charantia seed extract on the rat mid-term placenta. Abstract 78. Abstract International Symposium on Chinese Med Mat Res, pp.12-14.
[11] Ng, T. B. (1989). Investigation of ribosome inactivating protein-like activity in tissues of Cucurbitaceae plants. Indian J Exp Biol, 21(12), 1353-1358.
[12] Dong, T. X. (1993). Ribosome inactivating protein-like activity in seeds of diverse Cucurbitaceae plants. Indian J Exp Biol, 25(3), 415-419. [13] Jamwal, K. S., Anand, K. K. (1962). Preliminary screening of some reputed abortifacient indigenous plants. Indian J Pharmacy, 24, 218-220.
[14] Raza, H., Ahmed, I., John, A., Sharma, A. K. (2000). Modulation of xenobiotic metabolism and oxidative stress in chronic streptozotocin-induced diabetic
rats fed with Momordica charantia fruit extract. J Biochem Mol Toxicol, 14(3), 131-139. [15] Ahmad, N., Hassan, M. R., Halder, H., Bennoor, K. S. (1999). Effect of Momordica charantia (Karolla) extracts on fasting and postprandial serum
glucose levels in NIDDM patients. Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull, 25(1), 11-13.
[16] Akhtar, M. S. (1982). Trial of Momordica charantia Linn (Karela) powder in patients with maturity-onset diabetes. J Pak Med Assoc, 32(4), 106-107.
74 American Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (2014) 61-74
[17] Matsuda, H., Li, Y., Yamahard, J., Yoshikawa, M. Inhibition of gastric emptying by triterpene saponin, momordin Ic, in mice: Roles of blood glucose,
capsaicin- sensitive sensory nerves, and central nervous system. J Pharmacol Exp Ther, 289(2), 729-734.
[18] Matsuda, H., Hi, Y., Murakami, N., Yamahara, J., Yoshikawa, M. (1998). Antidiabetic principles of natural medicines. III. Structure-related inhibitory
activity and action mode of oleanolic acid glycosides on hypoglycemic activity. Chem Pharm Bull, 1998;46(9):1399-403.
[19] Ahmed, I., Adeghate, E., Sharma, A. K., Pallot, D. J., Singh, J. (1998). Effects of Momordica charantia fruit juice on islet morphology in the pancreas of the streptozotocin- diabetic rat. Diabetes Res Clin Pract, 40(3), 145-151.
[20] Matsuda, H., Murakami, T., Shimada, H., Matsumura, N., Yoshikawa, M., Yamahara, J. (1997). Inhibitory mechanisms of oleanolic acid
3-O-monodesmosides on glucose absorption in rats. Biol Pharm Bull, 20(6), 717-719. [21] Patel, K., Srinivasan, K. (1997). Plant foods in the management of Diabetes mellitus: Vegetables as potential hypoglycaemic agents. Nahrung, 41(2),
68-74.
[22] Zhang, Q. C. (1996). Preliminary report on the use of Momordica charantia extract by HIV patients. J Naturopath Med, 3, 65-69. [23] Sarkar, S., Pranava, M., Marita, R. (1996). Demonstration of the hypoglycemic action of Momordica charantia in a validated animal model of diabetes.
Pharmacol Res, 33(1), 1-4.
[24] Miura, T., Itoh, C., Iwamoto, N., Kato, M., Kawai, M., Suzuki, I. (2001). Hypoglycemic activity of the fruit of the Momordica charantia in type 2 diabetic m ice. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol, 47(5), 340-344.
[25] Ali, L., Khan, A. K., Mamum, M. I., Mosihuzzaman, M., Nohar, N., Nur-e-Alam, M, et al. (1993). Studies on hypoglycemic effects of fruit pulp, seed and
whole plant of Momordica charantia on normal and diabetic model rats. Planta Med, 1993; 59(5), 408-412. [26] Vikrant, V., Grover, J. K., Tandon, N., Rathi, S. S., Gupta, N. Treatment with extracts of Momordica charantia and Eugenia jambolana prevents
hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia in fructose fed rats. J Ethnopharmacol, 76(2), 139-143.
[27] Jayasooriya, A. P., Sakona, M., Yukizaki, C., Kawano, M., Yamamoto, K., Fukuda, N. (2000). Effects of Momordica charantia powder on serum glucose levels and various lipid parameters in rats fed with cholesterol-free and cholesterol-enriched diets. J Ethnopharmacol, 72(1-2), 331-336.
[28] Ahmed, I., Lakhani, M. S., Gillett, M., John, A., Raza, H. (2001). Hypotriglyceridemic and hypocholesterolemic effects of anti-diabetic Momordica
charantia (Karela) fruit extract in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Diabetes Res Clin Pract, 2001; 51(3), 155-161. [29] Lee-Huang, S. (1996). Plant proteins useful for treating tumors and HIV infection. 1-28- 1996 U.S. Patent #5484889.
[30] Terenzi, A., Bolognesi, A., Pasqualucci, L., Flenghi, L., Pileri, S., Stein, H., et al. (1996). Anti- CD30 (BER=H2) immunotoxins containing the type-1 ribosome-inactivating proteins momordin and PAP-S (pokeweed antiviral protein from seeds) display powerful antitumor activity against CD30+ tumor
cells in vitro and in SCID mice. Br J Haematol , 92(4), 872-879.
[31] Claflin, A. J., David, L., Vesely, B., Jerry, L., Charles, B., Bagwell, et al. (1978). Inhibition of growth and guanylate cyclase activity of an undifferentiated prostateadenocarcinoma by an extract of the balsam pear (Momordica charantia abbreviata). Proc Natl Acad Sci, 75(2), 989-993.
[32] Nagasawa, H., Watanabe, K., Inatomi, H. (2002). Effects of bitter melon (Momordica charantia) or ginger rhizome (Zingiber offifinale Rosc.) on
spontaneous mammary tumorigenesis in SHN m ice. Am J Clin Med, 2002; 30(2-3), 195-205. [33] Takemoto, D. J., Jilka, C., Rockenbach, S., Hughes, J. V. (1983). Purification and characterization of a cytostatic factor with anti-viral activity from the
bitter melon. Part 2. Prep Biochem, 1983; 13(5):397-421.
[34] West, M. E., Sidrak, G. H., Street, S. P. (1971). The anti-growth properties of extracts from Momordica charantia. West Indian Med J, 1971; 20(1), 25-34. [35] Takemoto, D. J., Dunford, C., McMurray, M. M. (1982). The cytotoxic and cytostatic effects of the bitter melon (Momordica charantia) on human
lymphocytes. Toxicol 1982; 20, 593-9.
[36] Zhu, Z. J., Zhong, Z. C., Luo, Z. Y., Xiao, Z. Y. (1990). Studies on the active constituents of Momordica charantia L. Yao Hsueh Hsueh Pao, 1990; 25(12), 898-903.
[37] Huang TM. Studies on antiviral activity of the extract of Momordica charantia and its active principle. Virologica, 1990; 5(4):367-73.
[38] Lee-Huang, S., Huang, P. L., Huang, P. L., Bourinbaiar, A. S., Chen, H. C. (1995). Kung HF. Inhibition of the integrase of human imm unodeficiency virus (HIV) type 1 by anti- HIV plant proteins MAP30 and GAP31. Proc Natl Acad Sci, 1995; 92(19),818-822.
[39] Biswas, A. R., Bapana, J. S., Ramaswamy, S. (1991). Analgesic effect of Momordica charantia seed extract in mice & rats. J Ethnopharmacol ,
31(1),115-118. [40] Kumar, A., Ram, J., Samarth, R. M., Kumar, M. (2005). Modulatory influence of Adhatoda vasica Nees leaf extract against gamma irradiation in Swiss
albino mice. Phytomedicine, 12, 285-293.
[41] Dhankhar, S., Kaur, R., Ruhil, S., Balhara, M., Dhankhar, S., Chhillar, A. K. (2011). A review on Justicia adhatoda: A potential source of natural medicine. Afr J Plant Sci , 5(11): 620-627.
[42] "The Wealth of India." A dictionary of Indian Raw Materials and Industrial Products, New Delhi, CSIR, 1950, Vol.VI, pp.408-411