Research Journal of Pharmacy and Technology

Boerhaavia diffusa Linn., belonging to family Nyctaginaceae, commonly known as “Punarnava”, is a perennial creeping herb, up to a height of 1–1.2 m. Parts of the plant have been used since long time in the treatment of various diseases. The roots have been reported to possess activities like diuretic, anti-inflammatory, laxative anthelmintic, stomachic, febrifuge, antileprosy, antiscabies, antiviral, and antitumour properties. In the present study, comparative standardization of the root of B. diffusa from two different geographical regions (Punjab and U.P) have been studied as per the WHO Guidelines to determine the correct identity and purity of the plant part and for the detection of adulteration as well. Botanical authentication and physicochemical parameters gave an idea about the quality of drug. The root powder was extracted with different solvents including Petroleum ether, Benzene, Chloroform, Ethyl acetate, Methanol and Water. Pharmacognostic study (macroscopic and powder microscopic) and physicochemical parameters (extractive values, ash values, foaming index, foreign matter, moisture content) were studied. The extractive values of hot extraction with methanol was found 15.3% w/w and 14.8%w/w and aqueous hot extractive was found 19.3%w/w and 19.7%w/w in Punjab and U.P. regions respectively. Total ash values were found 8.5%w/w and 9.15%w/w in Punjab and U.P. regions respectively. Further phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, triterpenoids, phenolic compounds (tannins), saponins and steroids.