PHARMACOGNOSTICAL EVALUATION AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF FICUS BENGHALENSIS AND CYNODON DACTYLON

Rakesh Kumar Nagar; Naresh Kalra

doi:10.24092/CRPS.2025.150402

Rakesh Kumar Nagar Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Lords University, Alwar - 301028, Rajasthan
Naresh Kalra Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Lords University, Alwar - 301028, Rajasthan

DOI https://doi.org/10.24092/CRPS.2025.150402

Abstract

This study presents a comparative pharmacognostic evaluation of Ficus benghalensis and Cynodon dactylon leaves through morphological, microscopic, physicochemical, and phytochemical analyses. Microscopic observations revealed distinct anatomical features: Ficus benghalensis exhibited paracytic stomata, trichomes, and calcium oxalate crystals, while Cynodon dactylon showed dumbbell-shaped guard cells and silica bodies characteristic of the Poaceae family. Physicochemical parameters, including ash values and foaming index, confirmed the quality of both leaf powders. Ethanol extracts demonstrated semisolid consistency and contained alkaloids, flavonoids, and saponins; Ficus benghalensis additionally showed glycosides, tannins, and phenolics. Antioxidant activity assessed via DPPH and ABTS assays revealed notable free radical scavenging potential, with Cynodon dactylon showing slightly stronger efficacy. These findings support the traditional medicinal use of both plants and highlight their potential for further pharmacological and therapeutic applications.

Keywords: Ficus benghalensis, Cynodon dactylon, Antioxidant activity, DPPH, ABTS

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