Evaluation of Pharmacognostical, Phytochemical and In-Vitro Antioxidant Activity of Clerodendrum Colebrookianum Stem Extract

Abstract

Introduction: The dependence on plant-based healthcare in developing nations arises from issues accessing allopathic medicine and concerns over its side effects. Traditional herbal remedies are assumed as safe and culturally inherited and are highly accepted as seen in Egypt's primary healthcare system. However, the preservation of this traditional knowledge is crucial due to its vulnerability over time. Globally, there's a renewed interest in herbal medicine, driven by safety concerns surrounding synthetic products. India, with its rich herbal heritage documented in texts like Ayurveda illustrates this resurgence. Recognizing and preserving traditional medicinal knowledge alongside scientific research on herbal products is essential for global healthcare. One such medicinal plant, Clerodendrum colebrookianum, known as "Nefafu" is prevalent in India's North-Eastern states. It holds significant traditional medicinal value, utilized for treating various ailments such as hypertension, cough, dysentery and skin diseases, emphasizing its importance in regional healthcare practices.

Objectives: This study explores the pharmacological potential and traditional significance of Clerodendrum colebrookianum (Nefafu) as a medicinal plant, particularly focusing on its antioxidant activity.

Methods: The research focuses on the therapeutic potential of the plant through extensive phytochemical screening and antioxidant assays such as DPPH radical scavenging and Hydrogen Peroxide activity. Additionally, the total phenolic and flavonoid content of the extract was determined.

Results: Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, tannins, phenols and fixed oils, aligning with its traditional medicinal use and suggesting new paths for pharmaceutical applications. The antioxidant assays demonstrated notable scavenging effects with an IC₅₀ value of 155.27µg/ml in DPPH radical scavenging activity, indicating its efficacy in combating oxidative stress. While the test sample exhibited slightly higher percentage inhibition than ascorbic acid at lower concentrations, the latter demonstrated stronger and more consistent inhibition at higher concentrations as evidenced by an IC₅₀ value of 669.7 µg/ml in Hydrogen Peroxide scavenging activity.

Conclusions: This analysis positions Clerodendrum colebrookianum as a promising candidate for further exploration in contemporary herbal medicine bridging traditional use with modern scientific validation.