Embelin: an HPTLC method for quantitative estimation in five species of genus Embelia Burm. f

Background

The plants belonging to the genus Embelia, a significant tropical genus with many biological activities, are benefiting because of their robust medicinal properties. Embelin is one of the principal bioactive molecules responsible for the medicinal properties of the genus Embelia. The quantification of the embelin compound among different species in this genus has not yet been investigated, so still uncertain which species and which part should be accepted. The present study was intended to establish a speedy and precise high-performance thin-layer chromatographic (HPTLC) method for quantitative study of embelin in various plant parts of Embelia ribes, Embelia tsjeriam-cottam, Embelia basaal, Embelia adnata, and Embelia gardneriana.

Result

This research confirmed the method as per the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) guidelines. We achieved separation on silica gel 60 F254 HPTLC plates using propanol: butanol: ammonia (7:3:7 v/v/v) as a mobile phase. Densitometry scanning performed for detection and quantification at 254 nm and 366 nm. Among the species investigated, the highest amount of embelin was found in E. ribes fruits.

Conclusion

Embelia ribes fruits are the best source of embelin. Embelin was first described in the endemic species, such as E. adnata and E. gardneriana. The method illustrated in this research may be applied for quantification of embelin and fingerprint analysis of other species within Embelia genus or described genera and chemo taxonomic studies of this genus.