Pharmacognosy and phytochemistry II

Introduction to Steroids, Cardiac Glycosides & Triterpenoids: Natural compounds with therapeutic roles. Introduction to Steroids, Cardiac Glycosides & Triterpenoids are bioactive natural compounds with crucial therapeutic roles in inflammation, heart disorders, and hormonal regulation. Steroids: Structure: Four fused rings (three six-membered, one five-membered). Functions: Membrane Structure: Cholesterol regulates membrane fluidity and permeability. Hormonal Roles: Includes … Read more

Introduction to Ruta (Flavonoids): Ruta, primarily Ruta graveolens (Rue), is rich in flavonoid and exhibits anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and antimicrobial properties. Synonyms of Ruta (Flavonoids): Common name: Rue Scientific name: Ruta graveolens Other names: Herb-of-grace, Common rue Biological Source: Derived from the aerial parts (leaves and stems) of Ruta graveolens. Family: Rutaceae Composition: Major flavonoids: Rutin … Read more

Introduction to tea (Flavonoids): Tea, derived from Camellia sinensis, is rich in flavonoids (catechins, flavonols) and widely consumed for its health benefits, including antioxidant, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective properties. Popular types: Green tea, black tea, oolong tea. Synonyms of Tea (Flavonoids): Common name: Tea Scientific name: Camellia sinensis Other names: Green tea, Black tea, Oolong tea … Read more

Introduction to Lignans (Phenylpropanoids): Lignans (Phenylpropanoid) are dimers linked by β–β’ bonds, found in seeds, fruits, vegetables, and wood. Possess antioxidant, anticancer, and phytoestrogenic properties. Synonyms of Lignans (Phenylpropanoids): Common name: Plant lignans Examples: Sesamin, Podophyllotoxin, Pinoresinol, Secoisolariciresinol Biological Source: Found in Sesamum indicum (sesame seeds), Linum usitatissimum (flaxseeds), Podophyllum hexandrum (mayapple). Family: Varies: Pedaliaceae, … Read more

Introduction to Phenylpropanoids and Flavonoids: Derived from phenylalanine, vital plant metabolites. Introduction to Phenylpropanoids and Flavonoids are plant-derived secondary metabolites with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. General Characteristics: Secondary metabolites derived from phenylalanine, featuring a three-carbon side chain attached to an aromatic ring. Phenylpropanoids: Structure & Diversity: Range from simple cinnamic acid to complex polymers. … Read more

General Introduction to Belladonna: Belladonna alkaloids are tropane alkaloids recognized for their potent anticholinergic activity. They are used in clinical practice for their mydriatic, antispasmodic, and anti-secretory effects. Synonyms: Common Name: Deadly nightshade alkaloids Scientific Name: Atropa belladonna alkaloids Other Names: Atropine, Hyoscyamine, Scopolamine alkaloids Biological Source: Plant: Derived from the dried leaves and roots … Read more

General Introduction to Rauwolfia: Rauwolfia alkaloids are indole alkaloids known primarily for their sedative and antihypertensive effects. They have been used extensively in traditional medicine for treating hypertension and mental disorders. Synonyms of Rauwolfia: Common Name: Indian snakeroot alkaloids Scientific Name: Rauwolfia serpentina alkaloids Other Names: Reserpine, Ajmaline, Serpentine alkaloids Biological Source: Plant: Extracted from … Read more

General Introduction to Vinca: Vinca alkaloids are a group of dimeric indole alkaloids highly regarded for their anticancer properties.  Initially extracted from the Madagascar periwinkle plant, they are used to treat various cancers by inhibiting mitotic cell division. Synonyms: Common Name: Periwinkle alkaloids Scientific Name: Catharanthus roseus alkaloids Other Names: Vincristine, Vinblastine, Catharanthus alkaloids Biological … Read more

Introduction to Alkaloids: Naturally occurring nitrogenous compounds found in plants. Introduction to Alkaloids: Known for diverse pharmacological actions like analgesic and antimalarial effects. Alkaloids are naturally occurring, nitrogen-containing compounds produced primarily by plants (though some are produced by fungi, bacteria, and animals). They often have a strong physiological effect on humans and animals. The nitrogen … Read more

Tracer Technique involves using radioactive or stable isotopes to track the path of elements through metabolic processes, enabling detailed analysis of biochemical reactions. The tracer technique is the backbone of biogenetic studies involving radioisotopes. Principle of Tracer Technique: A radioactive isotope is incorporated into a molecule of interest, allowing researchers to track the molecule’s movement, … Read more