Abstract

Dr. Sonali Bihana*

ABSTRACT

Ayurveda is not a science dealing only with drugs it is more a “way of life” and describes methods for promotion, prolongation and maintenance of positive health. Manjistha is a commonly and popularly used drug in many formulations from the time of Puranas to till date. As per classical literature available in Ayurveda, it is evident that drug Manjistha is having much significant and importance being extensively used for its various benefits and it has been screened for many pharmacological activities .Acharya Charak described it as Varnya, Vishaghna and Jvarahara while Acharya Susruta mentioned it as Pittashamaka. It acts as Raktadoshara ,Vranaropana, Varnya, Jwarhara, Vishaghna. Aims and Objectives: To compare the genuine sample of Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia Linn.) with different market samples on the basis of pharmacognostic and phytochemical study, to compile and compare the data generated during the study to find out whether there is any significant differences exist in pharmacognostical and phytochemical profiles of different market samples. Materials and Methods: The quantitative phytochemical studies of the drug samples were carried out by studying the percentage of ash, extractive values and qualitative screening was carried out by TLC, HPTLC and different biochemical tests. Thus, the present work aims in forming certain parameters for identification of drug with the help of various phytochemical observations. Conclusion: All H.P.T.L.C results of market samples compared with genuine, only sample2 (Gujarat) shows maximum similarity in constituents.