Abstract

Pharmacognostic and Phytochemistry of Centipeda minima: A Review

Author(s): Gulshan Kumar1* and Hem Chander 2

Centipeda minima is used as ethno-medicinal plant for treatment of various ailments. The present study was aimed to explore its pharmacognostic, fluorescence and Bio-chemical screening. The physical values like total ash, acid insoluble ash, water-soluble ash, alcohol soluble extractive and water-soluble extractives were determined. Air-dried powdered material has been subjected to qualitative and quantitative physicochemical estimations. The pharmacognostic evaluation total ash and quantitative analysis of leaves has revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, phenolic compounds, alkaloids, glycosides, fats and carbohydrates. Its decoction is mostly used in paralysis and pain in the joints, and also against malaria, hepatitis, diabetes mellitus, eczema, insect or snake bites, and opium poisoning in lower shivallik hills of Himachal Pradesh. The natural stock of medicinal plants is under tremendous pressure. It must be conserved and promoted its commercial cultivation. Pharmacognostic and bio-chemical investigation also provides useful information in regard to its correct identity and help to differentiate it from the closely related other species of Centipeda.

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