Qualitative Assessment of Achyranthes aspera Linn bark extract

Achyranthes aspera Linn. is a well-known plant drug in Ayurvedic, Unani-Tibbi, Siddha, Allopathic, Homeopathic, Naturopathic and Home Remedies. The present study deals with the pharmacognostic evaluation of root part of Achyranthes aspera Linn. (Amaranthaceae). Macroscopic and microscopic examinations of root part, observations and differential microchemical test has been carried out for the authentication of the samples. Physiochemical values such as the Moisture contents, percentage of total ash, acid insoluble ash, acid soluble ash, extractive values like petroleum ether-soluble extractives, ethanol-soluble extractives and water-soluble extractives were calculated as well as colour reactions of powder and extract with different chemicals were performed. The extracts were subjected to qualitative screening test for various constituents. The phytochemical tests revealed the presence of sterols, proteins, flavanoids tannins and carbohydrates. These observations will help in the Pharmacognostical identification and standardization of the drug in the crude form and also to distinguish the drug from its adulteration.