Pharmacognostical studies of Eclipta prostrata (Linn.) grown in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Eclipta prostrata Linn. is an annual herbaceous plant used in traditional medicine, commonly known as “Trailing Eclipta” or False Daisy in English, ‘Keekirindiya’ in Sinhala and ‘Kayyantakara’ in Tamil. The aim of this study was to conduct a detailed pharmacognostical evaluation of E. prostrata found in Sri Lanka. Anatomical, physicochemical, phytochemical studies, and quantification of phyto-constituents were performed as per WHO guidelines. Whole plant was sequentially extracted into solvents with different polarities. Phytochemical screening and Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) fingerprinting were carried out. Anatomical study and powder microscopy revealed useful diagnostic features. Physicochemical parameters such as moisture content, ash values (total, acid insoluble, water soluble) and extractable matter in water and ethanol were evaluated. Phytochemical screening and TLC fingerprinting revealed the presence of different types of phyto-constituents. Alkaloid, tannin, saponin, total flavonoid and total polyphenol contents were quantified. In conclusion, pharmacognostical study aids in establishing the standardization parameters of E. prostrata found in Sri Lanka.