Pharmcognostical standardization and HPTLC fingerprint of Averrhoa bilimbi (L.) fruits

The fruits of Averrhoa bilmbi L. are used to treat skin disorders, fever, for scurvy and beneficial in diarrhoea, hepatitis and in inflammatory condition. It is also used to treat hyperlipidaemia and possess potential antibacterial and antioxidant activity. Pharmacognostical standards on bilimbi fruits are not yet available for correct identification of plant material and to ascertain its quality and purity. The present investigation was therefore undertaken to determine the requisite pharmacognostical standards according to the Pharmacopoeial guidelines for evaluating the fruit. Pharmacognostical evaluation included examination of morphological and microscopical characters, physicochemical properties, phytochemical analysis, fluorescence study and HPTLC fingerprint. The powder microscopy showed the presence of simple and glandular trichomes and spiral thickening of vessels. Phytochemical screening reported the presence of carbohydrates, proteins, amino acids, flavonoids, tannins and hydrolysable tannins. The HPTLC fingerprint developed for the separation of phytoconstituents is unique to A. bilimbi L. fruit powder. HPTLC fingerprint has been developed; as the chemical fingerprint obtained by chromatographic techniques are strongly recommended for the purpose of quality control of herbal medicines. This unique band pattern obtained from HPTLC fingerprint can be used for the identification of A. bilimbi L. fruits. These studies provide referential information for correct identification and standardization of A. bilimbi L. fruit.