PHARMACOGNOSTICAL EVALUATION AND ANTHELMENTIC ACTIVITY OF SWERTIA ALATA ROYLE

Objective: In the present investigation, pharmacognostical, physicochemical characteristics, thin layer chromatography and anthelmintic activity of different extracts of Swertia alata Royle were studied. Methods: Different types of preliminary and phytochemical analysis and quantitative estimation have been done along with HPTLC fingerprinting. Two concentrations (30 mg/mL and 60 mg/mL) of different extracts of S. alata were used for anthelmintic activity against Indian earthworm Pheretima posthuma. Results: The microscopic study revealed the presence of lignified vessels and cruciferous stomata. The chemical tests showed the presence of glycosides, saponins, tannins, proteins and steroids. HPTLC fingerprinting of different extracts showed number of spots due to presence of various phytochemical compounds. The results of anthelmentic activity were expressed in terms of time of paralysis and time for death of worms. Piperazine citrate (10mg/mL and 30 mg/mL) was used as a reference standard and normal saline as a control group. Conclusions: These observations will be useful in evaluation of pharmacognostical and phytochemical standards to ensure the purity and quality of this plant. The anthelmintic activity of S. alata aerial extracts has therefore been demonstrated for the first time.