PHARMACOGNOSTIC EVALUATION AND PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING OF NELUMBO NUCIFERA (LOTUS) FLOWER EXTRACT

Abstract

Present study was conducted with an aim to prepare extracts Nelumbo nucifera (Lotus) flower (NNFE) using a suitable extraction technique to obtain maximum yield. It was followed by phytochemical screening, pharmacognostic and pharmacological evaluation of the obtained flower extract. The macroscopic study was carried out through sensory organs like size, shape, texture etc. Phytochemical screening included both qualitative as well as quantitative analysis of the obtained extract, which indicated the presence of carbohydrates, proteins, saponins, sterols, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, glycosides, flavonoids and tannins. The obtained results can serve as a valuable source of information for identification of this plant for future investigation and its applications.