Pharmacognostical, physicochemical, phytochemical profiling and topical herbal cream formulation of Terminalia arjuna bark

Abstract

Terminalia arjuna, a revered medicinal plant in Ayurvedic and traditional Indian medicine, is extensively employed for its cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. However, comprehensive pharmacognostical, physicochemical, and phytochemical standardization remains limited. The present study aimed to systematically evaluate the pharmacognostical, physicochemical, and phytochemical characteristics of Terminalia arjuna bark and formulate a topical herbal cream incorporating its extract. Pharmacognostical assessment included macroscopic, organoleptic, and powder microscopy analysis. Physicochemical parameters such as ash values, extractive values, moisture content, and foreign matter were determined using standard protocols. Phytochemical screening was performed to detect major bioactive classes, followed by TLC profiling for phytoconstituent characterization. An herbal cream formulation containing T. arjuna extract was developed and evaluated for pH, spreadability, viscosity, texture, appearance, and grittiness. The bark exhibited characteristic macroscopic features and microscopy revealed diagnostic elements like stone cells, starch grains, and lignified fibers. Total ash, acid-insoluble ash, and water-soluble ash were found to be within standard limits. The extractive values confirmed the plant’s richness in both aqueous and alcohol-soluble constituents. Phytochemical screening indicated the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, glycosides, and phenolics. TLC analysis showed distinct phytochemical bands with Rf values of 0.55 and 0.68. The herbal cream demonstrated satisfactory physicochemical properties with a pH of 6.2±0.03, good spreadability, smooth texture, acceptable viscosity, and no grittiness. The study establishes comprehensive quality control and phytochemical profiles for Terminalia arjuna bark and demonstrates the successful formulation of a stable and aesthetically acceptable herbal cream, paving the way for further pharmacological validation and therapeutic application.