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Tannins & Its Identification Tests ensure quality, purity, and therapeutic value of herbal formulations Tannins & Its Identification Tests confirm presence through color reactions, precipitation, and chemical assays. Definition Tannins are polyphenolic compounds that have astringent properties and the ability to bind proteins. Examples Gallic acid (found in Tea, Oak bark) Catechin (found in Green … Read more

Flavonoids & its Identification Tests confirm presence, purity, and therapeutic value in natural drug sources. Flavonoids & its Identification Tests also involve color reactions, UV absorption, and chemical assays for detection. Definition Flavonoids are polyphenolic compounds with antioxidant properties, widely distributed in fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants. Examples Quercetin (Onion, Apple) Kaempferol (Tea, Broccoli) Rutin … Read more

Glycosides & its Identification Tests involve detecting sugar-linked compounds with therapeutic significance. Glycosides & its Identification Tests include Keller–Killiani, Borntrager’s, and Legal’s test for confirmation. Definition Glycosides are compounds that consist of a sugar (glycone) and a non-sugar (aglycone or genin) part, linked by a glycosidic bond. Examples Cardiac glycosides (e.g., Digoxin from Digitalis purpurea) … Read more

Alkaloids & Its Identification Tests involve detecting nitrogenous plant compounds with therapeutic significance. Alkaloids & Its Identification Tests also confirm purity, pharmacological activity, and standardization of herbal drugs. Definition Alkaloids are nitrogen-containing, basic organic compounds derived from amino acids. They have significant physiological effects on humans and animals. Examples Morphine (Opium poppy – Papaver somniferum) … Read more

Introduction to Secondary Metabolites R highlights their ecological role and medicinal, industrial applications. Introduction to Secondary Metabolites R also explains plant-derived compounds like alkaloids, terpenoids, and flavonoids. Definition: Secondary metabolites are organic compounds produced by plants, fungi, bacteria, and other microorganisms that are not directly involved in growth, development, or reproduction but play a crucial … Read more

Overview of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient healing system developed in China over 2,500 years ago. It integrates herbal medicine, acupuncture, and dietary therapy. Principle TCM is based on the balance of Yin and Yang and the flow of Qi (vital energy) through meridians. The five elements (Wood, Fire, … Read more

Overview of Homeopathy Homeopathy was founded by Samuel Hahnemann in the late 18th century in Germany. It is based on the principle of “Similia Similibus Curentur” (Like Cures Like). Principle This believes that substances that cause symptoms in a healthy person can treat similar symptoms in a diseased person when given in ultra-diluted doses. Diagnosis  … Read more

Overview of Siddha Medicine Siddha medicine is one of the oldest systems of medicine, developed in South India, particularly in Tamil Nadu. It is attributed to Siddhars (ancient spiritual scientists) who had profound knowledge of medicine, yoga, and alchemy. Principle This is based on the concept that human body functions are controlled by five elements … Read more

Overview of Unani Medicine Unani medicine, also known as Greco-Arabic medicine, originated from the teachings of Hippocrates (Greece) and Galen (Rome), later developed by Arab and Persian scholars like Avicenna (Ibn Sina). It is widely practiced in India, the Middle East, and South Asia. Principle The Unani system is based on the humoral theory, which … Read more

What is Plant Tissue Culture? Plant Tissue Culture (PTC) is the technique of growing plant cells, tissues, or organs in a sterile, nutrient-rich medium under controlled conditions. It is used for micropropagation, genetic modification, conservation, and medicinal compound production. General Procedure Selection of Explant A small plant part (leaf, stem, root, meristem, embryo) is chosen … Read more