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Calotropis procera (Aiton) W.T. Aiton, belonging to the family Apocynaceae is an important medicinal shrub. It is widely used in folklore and Ayurvedic system of medicine. Various parts of this plant were used to treat human diseases such as Pama (Scabies), Vicharchika (Eczema), Kasa (Cough), Mukhakrishnatwa (Hyperpigmentation of the face), Pleehodara (Splenomegaly) and preparation of Ayurvedic as well as traditional medicines like Arkalavana and Arkataila. The present communication deals with a detailed account of the pharmacognostic study of C. procera root and stem. The study includes macroscopy, microscopy, powder microscopy studies, physicochemical, phytochemical analysis, heavy metal tests, screening of microbiological parameters and development of High-Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) fingerprints profile of C. procera root and stem. HPTLC fingerprints profile of ethanolic extract was done by using mobile phase toluene: ethyl acetate: formic acid for root and stem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Central Indian region consists mainly with Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh states of India and occupied the core zone of the country. The various tribal communities comprise about 24% population of Central India. The scrutiny of literature on ethnoveterinary medicines of Central India indicates that there are about 270 plant species under 218 genera and 84 families are used by tribal and rural communities of Central India for the treatment of 139 types of different ailments, diseases and disorders of their pet/domestic animals. This indigenous knowledge and practice of tribal and rural people is based primarily on locally available medicinal plants found in their surroundings. Therefore, all these medicinal plants should be scientifically screened in order to find out newer sources of ethnoveterinary drugs of herbal origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aegle marmelos L., family Rutaceae, is a sacred plant mentioned in various Hindu scriptures. It has both medicinal as well as cultural importance. In the present investigation, macroscopy, microscopy, and powder microscopy studies, physicochemical analysis, detection of heavy metals, analysis of aflatoxins, screening of microbiological parameters and High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) fingerprint profile of methanolic extract were performed. Analysis of 04 aflatoxins (A1, B1, A2, and B2) was performed and found that no aflatoxins were present, authenticated by comparing the Rf value and colour of the standards spot with sample on TLC plate. Qualitative microbiological analysis of pathogenic bacteria, i.e., Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella sp., Pseudomonasaeruginosa and Escherichia coli were done and found that no bacterial pathogens are present in the Aegle marmelos root bark extract. HPTLC chromatographic fingerprint of Aegle marmelos root bark was done by using mobile phase toluene: ethyl acetate: formic acid (7.5: 2.5: 0.4). TLC plate was derivatized by using derivatizing reagent 5% Methanolic - sulphuric acid reagent and plate was heated at 105°C till the bands are clearly visible. Major spots Rf values and colour were noted at 254 nm, 366 nm, after derivatization 366 nm and UV light. Therefore, established parameters may be used as a reference tool for proper recognition and confirmation of right plant material and monitoring of batch to batch consistency of finished herbal products using Aegle marmelos as an ingredient. This study may also helpful in the preparation of Aegle marmelos root bark monograph. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the plants that have been worshipped as sacred in India. It states that plants are associated with myths and traditions and resembles an emblem of a particular deity. It mentions several plants that have been worshipped including Ocimum tenuiflorum L., Ficus benhalensis L., and Phyllanthus emblica L.

An ethnobotanical study was carried out in Central Indian region. First hand information on various uses of ('Kakora' or 'Padora') Momordica dioica was collected from old, experienced local people and tribal medicine men. Details not recorded so far are reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper enumerates the traditional uses of 48 plant species belonging to 45 genera and 37 families, used by the Baiga tribal communities of Achanakmar- Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve, Central India for the treatment of various diseases. The plants are used to cure various health problems. Stomach disorders (18%) problem is highest in study area. In most of the cases bark (31%) is used for curing ailments, followed by root parts (25%), leaves (22%), tubers (12%), whole plants (10%), seeds (6%), fruits (4%), flowers and other parts (2%). The treatment mode is usually oral. Some ingredients such as honey, common salt and milk are also used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]