PHARMACOGNOSTICAL EVALUATION AND THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF SIMAROUBA GLAUCA DC: A PROMISING MEDICINAL PLANT
Susikumar Sundharamoorthy, Aswini, A. Radha and K. S. Ramya*
ABSTRACT
Simarouba glauca DC., commonly known as the "Paradise Tree," is a versatile evergreen species with significant medicinal and pharmacological potential. This study focuses on the pharmacognostical evaluation of S. glauca leaves and stem bark, which have shown promise in treating a variety of ailments, including cancer and infectious diseases. The tree is rich in bioactive compounds such as Quassinoids, alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds, which contribute to its antimicrobial, antifungal, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. The research involved a comprehensive analysis, including morphological, anatomical, and histochemical studies. Techniques like powder microscopy and High-Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) were employed for qualitative and quantitative characterization of phytochemicals. Histochemical tests revealed the presence of alkaloids, lignin, tannins, and fatty oils in various plant parts. HPTLC profiles confirmed the diversity and concentration of bioactive components in chloroform and methanol extracts of leaves and stem bark. The findings underscore the potential of S. glauca as a natural therapeutic agent, particularly for enhancing quality of life in cancer patients through its immune-boosting and tumour-reducing properties. The study also highlights the significance of using pharmacognostical methods for authentication and standardization of crude drugs in the herbal market. This work supports the inclusion of S. glauca in future pharmacopeia and underscores its potential as a sustainable resource for pharmaceutical applications.
Keywords: Histochemical, pharmacognostical, Quassinoids.
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