INVESTIGATION OF PHARMACOGNOSTICAL CHARACTERISTICS, PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS AND ASSESSMENT OF ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF MAMMILLARIA BENECKEI C. EHRENB STEM UTILIZING IN-VITRO TECHNIQUES

Background: Mammillaria beneckei C. Ehrenb, a species of cactus native to regions of Mexico, has been recognized for its medicinal potential due to its rich phytochemical composition. It belongs to the family Cactaceae and the genus Mammillaria, which is known for its globular or cylindrical shape. This study aimed to perform comprehensive phytochemical profiling, pharmacognostical parameters and evaluate the antioxidant properties of stem of cactus to understand its therapeutic potential. The present research involves the extraction and identification of bioactive compounds from the plant using various solvent systems. Methods: The preliminary phytochemical screening was performed as per standard protocols to standardize the aim, and physicochemical investigations were established. The TPC, TFC, DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and FRAP (Ferric reducing antioxidant power) methods were performed to evaluate antioxidant activities using various extracts. Results & Discussion: In the preliminary phytochemical screening bioactive compounds like Alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins and phenolic compounds were found. The results show significant inhibitory effects. Conclusion: The main objective of the present study is to conduct a phytochemical analysis of pharmacognostical parameters of the stem of this plant to identify its constituent compounds and evaluate its antioxidant activity. Some bioactive compounds (mentioned in the below, result portion) are responsible for the plant’s therapeutic action. It also shows potential pharmacological effects for treating oxidative stress, supporting its traditional use in herbal medicine. Future studies are due to explore its phytochemical compounds and their mechanisms of action.