Comparative studies on pharmacognostical and chemical changes of Cirakac curanam, an in-process study

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Shakila Ramachandran, Murugamal S, Raju K, Karthik and Nandhagopal K

Siddha Central Research Institute, India

: J Regen Med

Abstract

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Cirakac curanam is one of the single herb formulations in Siddha system. It is mainly used to rejuvenate the gastro intestinal tract (GI), central nervous system (CNS) and to cure Azhal (Pitha) diseases, Dizziness, Vomiting, Loss of appetite and fever. Cirakam(Cuminum cyminum) fruits belongs to Apiaceae family. It is processed with seven different plant juices viz., Saccharum officinarum (Stem), Citrus lemon (Fruit), Melothria mederaspatna (Leaves), Emblica officinalis (Fruit), Solanum trilobatum (Leaves), Azadirachta indica (Bark) and Leucas aspera (Leaves). After all these processes, the processed cirakam is added with sugar in the ratio of 4:1 and made into fine powder. In the present study, significant changes were found in colour, odour and taste at every stage of processing. Powder microscopic characters such as trichomes, vessels, sclereids, vitta and endocarp structures were observed under light microscope. The thin layer chromatographic studies of hexane using Toluene: Ethyl acetate: Chloroform: Formic acid (15:1.5:6:0.3) as mobile phase showed distinguishable spots under UV 254 nm, UV 366 nm and after derivatization with vanillin sulphuric acid. Similarly, the TLC of successive chloroform extract showed differ pattern for every processed cirakam.

Biography

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Shakila Ramachandran has completed her PhD at the age of 44 years from University of Madras. She is the Research Officer (Chemistry) & Head, Department of Chemistry of Siddha Central Research Institute, a major Institute of Central Council for Research in Siddha, Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India. She has published more than 40 papers in reputed journals and has contributed the chemistry part of monographs on 81 plants which are published in the book series of “Quality Standards of Indian Medicinal Plants” by Indian Council of Medical Research, an apex body of India.

E-mail: shakilasiva@gmail.com