Pharmacognostical Standardization and Phytological Profiling of Cestrum benghalensis (L.) Leaves and Stem Bark: Baseline Quality Control Parameters for Medicinal Use
Abstract
Cestrum benghalensis (L.), a perennial shrub from the Solanaceae family, holds promise in traditional medicine for treating infections, inflammation, and oxidative stress-related disorders due to its rich phytochemical profile. However, lack of standardized pharmacognostical parameters hinders its reliable use in herbal formulations. This study establishes comprehensive pharmacognostical standards for C. benghalensis leaves and stem bark through organoleptic, macroscopic, microscopic, powder microscopy, and physico-chemical evaluations. Organoleptic analysis revealed dark green ovate leaves with characteristic aromatic odor and bitter taste, while bark appeared brownish-gray with fibrous fracture. Microscopic features included anisocytic stomata, multicellular trichomes, paracytic stomata on bark, and lignified fibers. Powder microscopy showed calcium oxalate crystals, starch grains, and vessel elements as diagnostic markers. Physico-chemical constants indicated total ash (8.2 ± 0.5% for leaves, 10.1 ± 0.4% for bark), acid-insoluble ash (1.5 ± 0.2%, 2.1 ± 0.3%), water-soluble ash (3.8 ± 0.3%, 4.2 ± 0.2%), foreign matter (<1%), and moisture content (9.5 ± 0.6%, 8.2 ± 0.5%). These reproducible parameters provide baseline quality control markers to authenticate, differentiate from adulterants, and standardize crude drug material. This foundational work supports future phytochemical, quantitative, and pharmacological studies, aligning with WHO guidelines for herbal drug standardization.
How to Cite
Sarga Devi, Anupam Goyal1, "Pharmacognostical Standardization and Phytological Profiling of Cestrum benghalensis (L.) Leaves and Stem Bark: Baseline Quality Control Parameters for Medicinal Use", Vol. 3, Issue 3, 15-06-2025, pp. 71-79.
