Thin layer chromatographic analysis of some commonly used poisonous seeds

Forensic scientists are often confronted with cases where seeds of poisonous plants are used in the commission of crime. Identification of these poisonous seeds is always a tough job because literature does not provide any significant reference work regarding this important aspect. In the present work, five seed samples of four different poisonous plant species were selected and Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) was employed for the separation of their constituents. While advanced instrumental techniques are available, TLC is an economical and simple method that can be used in any laboratory. Various solvent systems were tried for analysis, and led to the discovery of an effective solvent system. This study is hoped to help forensic toxicologists in answering some queries related to TLC analysis of plant poisons.