Pharmacognostical Examination & Preliminary Phytochemical Analysis of Mimusops Elengi L and Monoon Longifolium Sonn Fruits

Abstract

This study investigates the pharmacognostical characteristics and preliminary phytochemical properties of Mimusops elengi L. and Monoon longifolium Sonn. fruits, both known for their extensive use in traditional medicine. Mimusops elengi L, commonly known as Bakul or Bulletwood, is renowned for its astringent, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties, often used in dental care and wound healing. Monoon longifolium L, also known as False Ashoka or Mast Tree, is valued for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic activities. Detailed pharmacognostical examination, including macroscopic and microscopic analysis, was conducted to identify distinguishing anatomical features of these fruits. Physicochemical parameters such as moisture content, ash values, and extractive values were measured to assess quality and purity. Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, tannins, and saponins, which contribute to their therapeutic potential. Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) profiling provided a comprehensive fingerprint of the phytoconstituents. The findings offer crucial baseline data for the standardization and pharmacological evaluation of Mimusops elengi and Monoon longifolium fruit, supporting their traditional uses and potential in developing novel therapeutic agents.