Phytochemical Characterization of Alpinia Galanga Plant of Pakistan (Research Article)

Author(s): Rubab Kiran, Sadia Ahmed Zuberi, Fawaz Jaffar* and Safoora Tariq

Abstract: Alpinia galangal, often recognized as galangal or Greater Galangal is a perennial plant extensively cultivated throughout Asian countries especially in Pakistan, Indonesia, and Europe-Mediterranean region. This plant contains a number of phytochemical substances such as anthraquinone glycoside, flavonoid, glycosides, saponins, sterols, tannins, terpenoids, fixed oils, fats, etc. and it is well known for treating a number of diseases. The object of the present investigation is to confirm the presence of different phytochemical compounds in Alpinia galangal by standard methods reported in the literature. In the preliminary phytochemical screening, tests for alkaloid, anthraquinone glycosides, carbohydrates, flavonoids, fixed oils and fats, phenols, proteins, saponins, sterols, tannins, and terpenoids have been performed using different methods. The result indicates the presence of anthraquinone glycosides, carbohydrates, flavonoids, fixed oils and fats, carbohydrates, glycosides, saponins, sterols, tannins and terpenoids. However, the tests for alkaloids, phenols and proteins showed negative results. Interestingly, alkaline reagent test and lead acetate test for flavonoids was positive whereas, sulphuric acid test was negative. The study would be of great importance for setting up the quantitative determination of these phytochemical compounds. In addition, Separation techniques could also be designed, and the separated compound can be studied for its pharmacological activities.

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