Pharmacognostic Standardization, Phytochemical and Pharmacological Profile of Bassia longifolia Leaves

Abstract

     

Bassia longifolia (Madhuca longifolia), also known as mahua belonging to the family sapotaceae has been traditionally used in the treatment of skin diseases, diabetes, snake bites, epilepsy, inflammation, bronchitis, ulcers, tonsillitis etc. Phytochemical studies revealed the presence of different bioactive constituents namely, carbohydrates, tannins, steroids, saponins and flavonoids. Total phenolic content and flavonoid content of various extracts of Bassia longifolia were also determined. It was observed that the methanolic extract contained higher content of phenols and flavonoids. The various extracts of Bassia longifolia were further subjected to in vitro pharmacological activities such as antioxidant, acetylcholinesterase inhibitory and antiurolithiactic activities. Amongst the various extracts used, methanol extract showed maximum pharmacological activities. These observations inferred that these pharmacological activities of Bassia longifolia may be attributed to phenolic or flavonoid compounds. The outcome of the present investigation emphasized that the methanol extract of Bassia longifolia leaves is responsible for most of the pharmacological activities.