PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF Lepidium didymum

In the current study, Lepidium didymum roots, stems and leaves extracts in N-hexane, ethanol and water were examined for phytochemicals in order to investigate various groups of phytochemicals. N-hexane, ethanolic and Aqueous extracts of stems revealed the presence of flavonoids, carbohydrates, anthra-glycosides and saponins. [...]it was concluded that Lepidium didymum may be employed in medicinal purposes as it is rich in secondary metabolites. INTRODUCTION Medicinal plants have a great role in improvement of health of community and individuals. Since ancient times, the world has relied upon the use of herbal drugs for the treatment of different type of diseases across (Prajapati and Prajapati, 2002; Shinwari et al., 2006). Study of medicinal plants and the invention of synthetic drugs is much needed, considering the indication of AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) like fatal diseases and the threats of newly arising diseases like bird flu and SARS (Severe acute respiratory syndrome) etc. In Mauritius, the application of Lepidium sativum leaf poultice externally on the head and the consumption of the decoction of the whole plant orally has been used for the treatment of headache. MATERIALS AND METHODS Chemicals N-hexane, Distilled water, chloroform, ethyl acetate, olive oil, ferric chloride, ammonia, hydrochloric acid, sulphuric acid, lead, benzene, ethanol, acetate, Hager reagent, glacial acetic acid, nephtol solution, ferric chloride, million reagent and iodine solution. Glassware Funnel, bottle, graduated cylinder, beakers, tripod stand, test tubes, beakers, pipette, spirit lamp, test tubes tray, stirrer and aluminum foil. Phytochemical investigation Different tests were performed on the water, n-hexane...