Analytical Study of Terminalia catappa L. Seeds from Central India: A Pharmacognostic, HPTLC, and FTIR-Based Approach

Background- Terminalia catappa L., widely recognized in traditional medicine, has demonstrated hepatoprotective, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects. However, phytochemical variability due to geographical differences hampers its standardization. This study aimed to establish a pharmacognostic and phytochemical profile of T. catappa seeds from the Central Indian Deccan Plateau, integrating modern spectroscopic and chromatographic tools. Method- Mature seeds were collected from Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, and authenticated. Pharmacognostic evaluations included transverse and powder microscopy, while physicochemical parameters (total ash, extractive values, moisture content) were measured per WHO and Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia guidelines. Phytochemical constituents were identified via standardized tests on methanolic and aqueous extracts. Soxhlet extraction estimated total fat content. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) were employed for molecular and marker compound analysis Results-Microscopic analysis revealed characteristic features such as xylem tracheid, oil globules, stone cells, and calcium oxalate crystals. Physicochemical analysis yielded total ash (4.54%), alcohol-soluble extractive (16.39%), and moisture content (2.29%). Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, proteins, and saponins, with notable absence of tannins. HPTLC detected β-sitosterol (255–268.7 µg/mL) with high reproducibility (CV = 3.69%). FTIR spectra revealed functional groups corresponding to phenolics, flavonoids, fatty acids, esters, and proteins. Conclusion-This is the first standardized pharmacopeial profile of T. catappa seeds from Central India. Integration of classical pharmacognosy with FTIR and HPTLC establishes a replicable quality control framework for geographically distinct ecotypes. These findings support the nutraceutical and therapeutic potential of T. catappa seeds and lay the groundwork for future bioactivity validation and industrial application.