Pharmacognostical and phytochemical study of Musa paradisiaca Linn. (Stmn.)

Abstract

Background and Aim of Study: The main aim of this research is to establish a standardized data regarding its safety through including certain parameters. Kadali (Musa paradisiaca) Linn. (Musaceae) is a perennial herb which is like a tree and is used in Ayurvedic system of medicine to cure many diseases. Materials and Methods: In the present study, pharmacognostical and phytochemical standardization of plant material was performed as per the guidelines of World Health Organization. Results: The stamen of M. paradisiaca is brownish black or dull in color, slightly smooth and 0.9-1.6 cm long depending on the maturity of stamen. Powdered microscopy of stamen of M. paradisiaca shows some fiber vascular tissues, prism-like calcium oxalate crystal, pigmented sclereids, and spherical pollen grains. Physicochemical parameters including loss on drying (5.5% w/w), total ash (5.81%), water-soluble ash (3.79% w/w), acid-insoluble ash (2.61% w/w), water-soluble extractive (7.17% w/w), methanol-soluble extractive (2.38% w/w), hexane-soluble extractive (1.44% w/w), ethyl acetate-soluble extractive (2.24% w/w), and petroleum ether-soluble extractive (4.0% w/w) were evaluated. Phytochemical screening of aqueous and methanolic extracts showed the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, saponins, tannins, and phenols. Safety and efficacy of plant drug was further performed through evaluating heavy metals (Zn, Cd, and Pb). Heavy metals are discovered within the permissible limits. Conclusion: The diagnostic characters of stamen will give the necessary information regarding its identification. Its physiochemical and phytochemical evaluation provides information which accounts for the safety, identification, and class of chemical constituents present in this crude drug.