Abstract :
Background: Tecomella undulata (Sm.) Seem. is considered as a genuine source of Rohitaka which is mentioned in Ayurveda classics for Yakrit Pliha Roga (liver and spleen diseases). In different parts of India, various other species are used as substitute of Rohitaka due to non-availability of the genuine source. In Nepal, folklore traditional practitioners use Rhododendron arboreum Sm. for the treatment of jaundice and it is marketed by the name of Rohitaka. Objective: The present study outlines the concept of substitution. The stem bark of T. undulata (Sm.) Seem. and R. arboreum Sm. is compared on the basis of macroscopic/organoleptic evaluation, microscopic evaluation, physicochemical analysis, phytochemical analysis, and high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC). Materials and Methods: Macroscopic/organoleptic evaluation, microscopic evaluation, and physicochemical and preliminary phytochemical screening were carried out using standard methods. Semi-automatic applicator was used for HPTLC profiling. Results: Macroscopic/organoleptic evaluation showed longitudinally fissured and fibrous fracture in T. undulata with bitter taste, while longitudinally furrowed, laminated bark with bitter taste in R. arboreum. Powder microscopy revealed the presence of parenchyma with starch, parenchyma with cell content, and cork cells in both drugs. On physiochemical analysis, T. undulata showed greater water and alcoholic extractive value than R. arboreum. Carbohydrates, alkaloids, tannins, and phenols were the chemical constituents found in both the drugs. HPTLC study revealed that there are 18 active phytoconstituents in R. arboreum barks and 24 in T. undulata on the basis of peaks observed. Conclusion: The present study revealed few common phytoconstituents found in both T. undulata and R. arboreum.
Keyword :
Key words: High-performance thin-layer chromatography, phytoconstituents, Rhododendron arboretum, Rohitaka, Tecomella undulate, Yakrit-pleeha Roga