Vegetos
(An International Journal of Plant Research & Biotechnology)
(eISSN: 2229-4473)
Pharmacognostic and phytochemical analysis of Premna integrifolia L. plant parts
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Research Articles | Published: 23 May, 2026
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Keywords: Premna integrifolia, Pharmacognosy, Powder microscopy, Pharmacopoeia, Heavy metals, Trichome, Organoleptic, Macroscopic
Abstract
The current study uncovered significant characteristics in the organoleptic macroscopic and microscopic properties of plant parts, phytochemical content, histochemical localization, and physicochemical properties of Premna integrifolia drugs, which can aid in species identification, taxonomy, and quality control of plant-based herbal formulations. The odour of the root and leaves is very specifically helpful in the characterization of ingredients. The presence of yellow, green, and red fluorescence in root and leaf powder, respectively, under UV (365 nm) is a characteristic of this species. Determination of total ash value and moisture content was maximum in leaf samples. Extractive values of drugs in ethyl acetate (8.41%) and ethanol (7.56%) were higher in leaf powder than in stem and root. Leaves and root ethanol extracts showed green and orange fluorescence, respectively, under UV (365) light. Similarly, stem and root ethyl acetate extract showed orange and red fluorescence, respectively, under similar UV light. Important secondary metabolites like phenol, flavonoid, glycoside, and coumarin were present in both ethyl acetate and ethanol extracts of stem, leaf, and root. Phlobatanin, saponin, and terpenoids were totally absent in both extracts of all parts of the plant. Powder microscopy of drugs confirmed the presence of three-celled hooked trichomes. Small-sized glandular trichomes present on the leaf surface are a unique feature of this species and will be helpful in the authentication of Premna-based drugs. Heavy metals (Pb, Hg, As, Ni, Cd, Cr, Fe, Zn, Cu, and Mn) analysis in stem, root, and leaf samples suggested that the content of these metals in tissues was below the permissible limit as suggested by WHO. Various pharmacognostical and phytochemical features found in this plant could aid in the standardization, identification, and further research of P. integrifolia plant-based medications utilized in Ayurveda and modern pharmacopoeia.
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Author Information
Department of Biotechnology, School of Research and Technology, People’s University, Bhopal, India