Pharmacognostic Evaluation and Development of Quality Control Parameters for Root of Abelmoschus manihot (L.) Medik

Background: In traditional medicine, Abelmoschus manihot (L.) Medik, which belongs to the Malvaceae family, has been used to treat boils, sores, sprains, inflammations, tuberculosis, and leucoderma. Objectives: The objective of this study was to establish identification and quality control standards. Materials and Methods: For pharmacognostic evaluation, macroscopy, micromorphology and physicochemical constants have been used. Microchemical colour reaction tests and HPTLC studies were performed for qualitative phytochemistry. Results: Externally the root is yellowish-brown to yellowish-white and has a distinct odour, bitter taste, wavy shape, and smooth texture. The periderm was composed of 4-5 thin-walled cells. The secondary phloem has dilated rays and broad pyramid-shaped mucilage-packed rays. The fibres have thin walls and are narrow, and the secondary xylem is a compact circular cylinder with eight to eight radial lines of vessel chains. Prismatic calcium oxalate crystals, lignified long, narrow, thick-walled fibres with parenchyma cells, lignified cork cells, and cylindrical vessel elements were discovered in powdered samples. Physicochemically, the ash value was found above 8% which shows more than 75% solubility in acid whereas water and methanol extractive values were found to be just above and below 8% respectively. In UV-fluorescence study, very distinctive colour changes of the powdered root have been recorded. The phytochemical analysis reveals the presence of glycosides, saponins, flavonoids, tannins, and steroids. GC-MS and HPTLC are also used to characterize lipid and phenolic molecules. Conclusion: These findings will help in the future identification and quality control of A. manihot as reference standards.