Phytochemical standardization of Aloe vera extract by HPTLC techniques

Medicinal plants are very ancient and only true natural medicines useful in several ways for the treatment of different diseases. They can be used directly or in extracted forms for the management of various ailments due to presence of various phytochemicals[1]. For the prevention and treatment of various health ailments, plants and isolated phytochemicals have been used from time immemorial. A large number of phyto drugs prescribed worldwide are derived directly or indirectly from natural sources. A large number of African and Asian populations use traditional medicines for their primary healthcare[2]. About 2-3 decades ago most of the drugs were of herbal origin. A variety of reasons strengthen why people like to use natural medicines such as fewer side effects on human health and cost effective. Herbal medications gain popularity due to a perception that there is a lower incidence of adverse reaction to plant preparation compound to synthetic pharmaceuticals[3]. Aloe vera (A. vera) L. is a cactus-like perennial plant belonging to family liliaceae, widely distribution in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world have been chosen in the present study[4]. Most of Aloe species are indigenous to Africa, but now have wide distribution in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. They are grown in warm climates, both as wild and cultivated plants, in countries in southern, eastern and northern Africa, India and in China[5]. The genus Aloe contains over 400 different species with Aloe barbadensis Miller (A. vera), Aloe aborescens and, Aloe chinensis being the most popular. Aloe barbadensis Miller is considered to be the most biologically active[6]. Traditionally, A. vera gel is used both, topically (treatment of wounds, minor burns, and skin irritations) and internally to treat constipation, coughs, ulcers, diabete, headaches, arthritis, immune-system deficiencies[6]. The earliest recorded pharmacological usage was recorded in ancient Sumeria about 1750 B.C. where it was considered as an excellent treatment for stomach irritations and nausea [5]. A. vera consists of high content of phenolic compounds, glycosides (aloins), 1,8-dihydroxyanthraquinone derivatives (aloe emodin), beta-1,4 acetylated mannan, mannoseObjective: To examine the phytochemical parameters of Aloe vera (A. vera) L. which can be used as a tool for its standardization. Methods: The phytochemical analysis, solubility test, heavy metal analysis, antimicrobial study and quantitative analysis of gallic acid and berberine by HPTLC method were included in present study. Results: Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloid, carbohydrate, tannin, steroid, triterpenoid and glycoside. Total flavonoid and phenol content was found to be 1.9% and 13.11%. Concentartion of lead, arsenic, mercury and cadmium was found to be under the limit. Total bacterial count, yeast and moulds contents were found to be under the limit whereas Escherichia coli (E. coli) and salmonella was found to be absent in the extract. Quantitative analysis through HPTLC revealed the presence of 2.74% and 0.543% w/w of berberine and gallic acid. Conclusions: The results indicate that the plant extract are rich in berberine and gallic acid implying their importance to human health. This investigation could be used as source of standard parameters which can play an important role in its standardization. Journal of Acute Disease (2012)47-50