Pharmacognostic Characterization and Development of Standardization Parameters for the Quality Control of Berberis Pachyacantha Bien. ex koehne (Research Article)

Author(s): Ishtiyaq Ahmad Chashoo*, H N Verma, Zulfiqar Ali Bhat and Weekar Younus Raja

Abstract: Berberis pachyacantha commonly known as Barberry is the member of the genus Berberis belonging to family (Berberidaceae). The genus Berberis is an important drug in Indian and European system of traditional medicine due to the presence of biologically active alkaloid. In spite of its numerous medicinal attributes, no published work is available till date on pharmacognostical standardization and developments of its quality control on its root part. So, the present study was undertaken to evaluate pharmacognostic characters of stem of Berberis pachyacantha. Methods: The studies were carried out in terms of morphological, microscopic characters and physicochemical parameters using standard methods. Results: Microscopy of the stem revealed vascular bundle, Prismatic calcium oxalate crystals, stone cells, fibers, pitted and spiral xylem vessels were also identified in the microscopy of powdered samples. Preliminary phytochemical screening showed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, saponins, tannins, flavonoids, coumarins and sterols. Physiochemical parameters such as the moisture content, ash content, heavy metal and mineral content, extractive values, fluorescence analysis and pH of extracts were determined. Quantitative estimation of flavanoids and Phenolic. Conclusion: The current results provide necessary information for the correct identification and quality assessment of Berberis pachyacantha crude drug or herbal products containing the plant.

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