PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND PHYTOCHEMICAL EVALUATION OF KHADIRA (ACACIA CATECHU WILLD)

Dr. Umakant N. Rabb*

Khadira (Acacia catechu Willd.) is an important medicinal plant widely used in Ayurveda for the management[3] of Kuṣṭha, Prameha, Raktapitta, and Mukharoga due to its Kashaya Rasa and Raktaprasadana properties. Standardization of herbal drugs through physicochemical and phytochemical analysis is essential to ensure quality, safety, and efficacy. The present study aims to evaluate the physicochemical parameters and preliminary phytochemical constituents of Khadira heartwood powder. Physicochemical analysis such as loss on drying, ash values, extractive values, and pH were performed as per API and WHO guidelines. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of tannins, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, glycosides, and carbohydrates, supporting its classical indications. The findings provide scientific validation and quality control parameters for Khadira used in Ayurvedic formulations. The objective of the study is to evaluate physicochemical parameters and preliminary phytochemical constituents of Khadira as per API standards. The authenticated heartwood powder of Khadira was analyzed for physicochemical parameters and subjected to qualitative phytochemical screening of aqueous and alcoholic extracts. All physicochemical values were within API limits. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of tannins, flavonoids, phenols, glycosides, and carbohydrates. The study establishes standard quality control parameters for Khadira and supports its traditional therapeutic applications.