Vol. 8, Issue 2 (2019)

Author(s):
Neeraj, Neeru Vasudeva, Sunil Sharma and Babu Lal Jangir

Abstract:
Capparis decidua a xerophytic shrub of family Capparidaceae is of great nutritional and medicinal value. Its fruits (capers) are used as a vegetable and to cure various ailments. In the present work, fruit sample was studied macroscopically, microscopically and analyzed for phytochemicals present in it using analytical techniques like high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Various parameters were studied as per the World Health Organization recommended methods of quality control. The heavy metal analysis was done by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) and pesticide residue was determined by GC-MS. Transverse section of fruit showed the presence of exocarp, mesocarp with vascular bundles, endocarp, endosperm, and embryo. Powder microscopy of fruit illustrated parenchymatous mesocarp cells, fibers, spiral vessels, and mucilage. Alkaloids, carbohydrates, proteins, sterols and phenolic compounds including flavonoids were qualitatively assessed. Trace amount of heavy metals were identified by AAS. Six polyphenols were determined by HPLC. GC-MS analysis identified traces of non-toxic pesticides in the ethyl acetate extract. Outcomes of the above study can be used for making diagnostic indices for the identification and authentication of the herb and can also be helpful for further exploring the pharmacological potency of the herb.