PHARMACOGNOSTIC AND HPTLC CHARACTERIZATION OF KIRATATIKTA, SWERTIA CHIRAYITA (ROXB. EX FLEM.) KARSTEN

Background: Swertia chirayita (Roxb. ex Flem.) Karsten known as Kiratatikta in Ayurveda, the Indian indigenous health system, is used for various ailments like liver disorders, diabetes, fever, worm infestation, and others. Due to huge demand and non-availability, other Swertia species and other herbs are used as substitutes/adulterants for Swertia chirayita (Roxb. ex Flem.) Karsten. Hence, the present study is carried out with the objective of characterizing the macroscopic, microscopic features, the physicochemical and chromatographic profile of the herb. Material & Methods: Pharmacognostical parameters like microscopy, physico-chemical, phytochemical and chromato-graphic investigation for the whole plant of Swertia chirayita (Roxb. ex Flem.) Karsten was done using standard methodology. Results: The chief macroscopic features of the whole plant are wrinkled roots, quadrangular stem in the upper portion, leaves brittle, and presence of flowers and fruits. In powder microscopy, fragments of the epidermis with stomata, resin containing cells, pitted parenchyma, cells forming epidermis of fruit, parenchyma cells, pitted fibers, fragments of cotyledon, endosperm cells, sclereids were the key features. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloid, glycoside, tannin, and proteins. Chromatographic profile at 254 nm showed 6 spots with R_f values 0.01, 0.08, 0.33, 0.56, 0.65, 0.74 with maximum concentration of 40.68% at R_f value 0.33. Conclusion: This study will serve as a standard reference for the identification of Swertia chirayita (Roxb. ex Flem.) Karsten.