Pharmacognostical Standardization, Chromatograhic and Spectral Analysis of Methanolic Extract of Echinops echinatus Linn. Roots and Fractions

Echinops echinatus Linn. (Fam. Asteraceae) possesses medicinal value a good deal. The plant is a nerve tonic that stimulates liver and increases appetite, and is effective as anti-inflammatory and in jaundice. Objective of the current study was to standardize Echinops echinatus (E. echinatus), both macroscopically and microscopically. Pharmacognostic standardization with the help of different physicochemical parameters and fluorescence analysis was performed according to the WHO guidelines. Qualitative phytochemical analysis of crude methanolic extract (EME) and various fractions was done. TLC and column chromatographic techniques were employed for presence of various phytoconstituents. Five compounds were isolated from EME using column chromatography, which were characterized by techniques like FTIR and UV. The isolated purified compounds showed different hRf values ranging from 67 to 94. Results of this study may serve as biochemical markers for this medicinally important plant in the pharma industry and plant systematic studies. The current work will help in identification of the species pharmacognostically and anatomically; and phytochemical analysis may help in screening of active constituents responsible for the activity. The study will serve as a reference for correct identification and in checking any type of adulteration. This may also help in differentiating this species from closely related species of the same genus and family.