Pharmacognostical and phytochemical blueprint of Abroma augusta L. stem bark

Abstract

Uses of Abroma augusta L. stem and root are mentioned in traditional texts where the presence of the alkaloid, betaine in these parts is known. The study was undertaken to generate a pharmacognostical and phytochemical blueprint of Abroma augusta stem bark and detection of the bioactive alkaloid, betaine in it. Authenticated plant materials were subjected to pharmacognostical, physicochemical, and phytochemical studies. HPTLC, HPLC, and FTIR were used for chemical fingerprinting of the plant materials. Diagnostic features of A. augusta stem bark such as organoleptic evaluation, powder microscopic characters, fluorescence profile with various reagents were established. Phytochemical screening of different solvent extracts showed the presence of alkaloids, steroids, saponins, tannins, phenolics, glycosides, but fewer terpenoids, flavonoids, and carbohydrates. This was rationalized by FTIR spectroscopy of the chloroform extract that gave maximum extractive yield. HPTLC and HPLC fingerprint profiling with marker identification was generated. The alkaloid, betaine was isolated and identified by mass spectrum. The botanical and chemical screening suggested that A. augusta stem bark may be a potential substitute for the root or stem of the plant. However, further, bio-evaluations are required to ascertain its possible clinical applications. The generated profile may serve as a reference document in future for identification and authentication of the plant material.