Biomedicine

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: Plants from Anacardiaceae family are used in indigenous system of medicine for their anti-arthritic, antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Among them, Holigarna species are widely known as toxic members of Anacardeaceae family which are endemic to Western Ghats. It is commonly known as allergic plant which causes contact dermatitis if contacted. However, young leaves and seeds are used against haemorrhoids, obesity, and cancer and skin diseases. Despite the claims and the use of Holigarna ferrugenia, Holigarna nigra and Holigarna grahamii for the management of skin diseases in traditional medicine, little is known and documented so the aim of the study was to explore the in vitro antioxidant activity and to analyse qualitative and quantitative of phytochemicals along with their physicochemical properties.
Materials and Methods: Physicochemical parameters such as moisture, pH, total ash, acid-insoluble ash, and elemental values were determined. Qualitative and quantitative analysis were carried out along with different antioxidant assays for evaluating the antioxidant activity of aqueous crude extract of H. ferrugenia, H. nigra and H. grahamii.
Results: Physicochemical analysis revealed the presence of trace elements. Preliminary phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, saponins and steroids in aqueous crude extract of H. ferrugenia, H. nigra and H. grahamii. The free radical scavenging activity of all plants exhibited better antioxidant properties.
Conclusion: The results indicated that the leaves contain an appreciable number of bioactive compounds and presence of these phytochemicals, especially the phenols and flavonoids could be the reason behind the use of both plants in ethno-medicine for the management of various ailments.