Physico-chemical standardization of Hansraj (Adiantum capillus-Veneris)

Ethno-botanical use and traditional knowledge of plants have been usually recognized all over the world. The outstanding characteristics of extracts obtained from this drug have been technically studied, attributing the main biological activity to its tannin and flavonoid content. Recent study about this drug Adiantum capillus-veneris Linn requires pharmacognostical evidences to develop quality-control methods for raw materials and extracts produced with this plant drug. In this research article macro and micro-scopic studies were proven the authentication of the real drug in which adulteration is allowed in commercial samples of this plant material. The parameters which were mention in this study all are according to WHO guidelines and Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP). The morphological characteristics present in this article can be useful for quick identification of the drug, particularly useful in the case of powdered drug. Physicochemical parameters such as total ash, water soluble ash, acid insoluble ash, loss on drying, percentage of foreign matter and extractive values were determined. Preliminary phytochemical screening in different solvents showed the presence of flavonoids, terpenoids, fats, tannins and phenolic compounds. The various phytochemicals presence in the drug are confirmed by thin layer chromatography (TLC) profile. The study can serve as a valuable source of information and provide suitable standards for the presence of various phytochemicals. The results extracted from this study such as identification, phytochemical investigation etc. could be helpful in future research and uses