Evaluation of physicochemical parameters of Acacia catechu willd

Acacia catechu willd. (Mimosoideae) is a deciduous, thorny tree which grows up to 15m height; widely distributed throughout India. This plant is rich source of flavonoids, tannins and phenolic compounds. It is used traditionally for the treatment of asthma, bronchitis, pain in chest, ulceration, wound healing, mouth ulcer, colic, vitiligo, cancer, sore throats, and diarrhoea. It possesses antioxidant, antipyretic, antileprotic, antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal, spasmolytic, antibacterial, hypoglycaemic, antifertility, immunomodulatory, hepatoprotective, hypotensive and wound healing properties.

In the present study, plant has been explored for detailed pharmacognostic and microscopic study. Preliminary phytochemical screening has been performed for evaluation of various phyto-constituents present in the plant. Physicochemical parameters such as moisture content, ash value, extractive values have been determined as per procedure given in IP. Presence of heavy metal, aflatoxin, microbial contamination and pesticidal residue has been assessed as per WHO guidelines.

A. catechu stem is reddish brown, cylindrical, hard to fracture and astringent in taste. Microscopy showed the presence of medullary rays, vessels, xylem fibres, parenchyma, fibres and calcium oxalate crystals. Heavy metal, aflatoxin, microbial contamination and pesticidal residue contents were found within limits as per WHO guidelines. Preliminary phytochemical screening showed the presence of tannins, flavonoids and reducing sugar.

Present study was carried out to establish quality parameters for A. catechu plant which will be further utilised for evaluation of pharmacological activity.