Comparative Chemo-Profile Variation Study of Kalamegha (Andrographis paniculata (Burm.F.) Nees) Collected from Different Bhoomi Desha of Karnataka by using HPLC Method

Background and Objectives: In Ayurveda, Desha is an important factor influencing the Guna and Karma of medicinal plants. Kalamegha (Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Nees) is an important Ayurvedic drug known for its Tikta Rasa and therapeutic value. The present study was conducted to evaluate the influence of habitat on the quality, potency and andrographolide content of Kalamegha. Methods: Kalamegha Panchanga was collected from three Bhoomi Desha of Karnataka: S1 from Jangala Desha (Ballari), S2 from Anupa Desha (Mangalore) and S3 from Sadharana Desha (Belagavi). The samples were authenticated, shade-dried, powdered and subjected to pharmacognostical, physicochemical, phytochemical, quantitative inorganic, RP-HPLC and soil analysis. In-vitro antifungal activity was assessed by agar well diffusion method. Results: Organoleptic and microscopic characters confirmed the identity and genuineness of all samples. Physicochemical parameters were within API limits. Phytochemical screening revealed presence of saponins, tannins, alkaloids, phenols and terpenoids. Quantitative inorganic analysis showed mineral variation, with higher calcium, zinc and iron in the Anupa Desha sample and higher manganese in the Sadharana Desha sample. RP-HPLC analysis showed variation in andrographolide content, with ethanolic extracts showing better yield than aqueous extracts. Comparatively, Jangala Desha showed the highest andrographolide content due to elevated nitrogen content in the soil. Soil analysis showed variation in pH and mineral parameters among the collected samples. In-vitro antifungal activity showed concentration-dependent activity, with Jangala Desha showing the highest zone of inhibition. Interpretation and Conclusion: Bhoomi Desha influences the chemo-profile and biological activity of Kalamegha. Comparatively, Jangala and Sadharana Desha samples showed higher percentage of Andrographolide concentration, Water and Alcohol soluble extractive values, supporting the Ayurvedic concept of superiority of Jangala and Sadharana Desha for Dravya Sangrahana.