Preliminary Phytochemical screening and HPTLC Studies of Extracts of Dried Rhizomes of Aspidium cicutarium

Objective: Many herbal formulations are widely used in Ayurveda since ancient times. However it is not possible to attribute their pharmacological activity to a particular phytoconstituent present in the extract unless thorough phytochemical investigation is carried out. The present study aims at phytochemical screening of methanolic and aqueous extracts of rhizomes of Aspidium cicutarium Family Dyropteridaceae. The powdered dried rhizome was subjected to initial studies to determine the physical constants. Results: Extracts were made and subjected to various chemical tests and showed presence of steroids, flavonoids, saponins. Further investigation of the extracts by HPTLC is an attempt to deduce the varied composition of methanolic and aqueous extract of Aspidium cicutarium. The chromatogram shows presence of multiple peaks which indicate diverse composition of extract. Conclusion: Further detailed investigations of the extracts can be helpful in making formulations of these extracts so that they can successfully and safely be used to treat some diseases.