Pharmacognostical and phytochemical research profile of Astilbe rivularis Buch. Ham.

Abstract

Background: Astilbe rivularis Buch. -Ham., a folklore rhizomatous perennial herb of the Saxifragaceae family, is traditionally used in the Himalayan regions of India to treat a range of infectious and non- infectious diseases. Despite its ethnomedicinal significance, a comprehensive pharmacognostical profile of this plant has not been updated. Objective: To establish a detailed pharmacognostical and phytochemical profile of the whole plant of Astilbe rivularis Buch. Ham, along with its Rasanirdharana. Materials and Methods: Pharmacognostical evaluation included organoleptic assessment, morphological description, transverse sections and powder microscopy. Phytochemical studies comprised preliminary qualitative screening of major secondary metabolites, physicochemical analysis such as extractive values, ash content, loss on drying (LOD) & pH and HPTLC profiling. Rasanirdharana was conducted using 25 healthy volunteers using a structure proforma to identify the primary and secondary tastes. Results: Distinct morphological and microscopical features were observed in roots, rhizomes, stems and leaves of Astilbe rivularis. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of carbohydrates, alkaloids, glycosides, reducing sugars, tannins, phenols and saponins. The HPTLC chromatogram revealed multiple peaks at various wavelengths. Rasanirdharana evaluation indicated Kashaya Rasa as Pradhana Rasa and Tikta Rasa as Anurasa. Conclusion: The integrated pharmacognostical and phytochemical findings provide a robust framework for the identification, quality control and further pharmacological study of Astilbe rivularis Buch. -Ham.