Development of Quality Standards and Phytochemical Investigation of Cichorium intybus L. seeds.

Abstract

Cichorium intybus Linn (Asteraceae) is a bushy perennial herb with blue, lavender, or occasionally white flowers. Chicory contain mainly volatile oils, alpha-amyrin, taraxerone, baurenyl acetate and beta-sitosterol, with the majority of the toxic components. In addition, the leaves of chicory may also be used as compresses to be applied externally to ease skin inflammations and swellings. As a mild diuretic, it increases the elimination of fluid from the body, leading to its use as a treatment for rheumatism and gout. The root and the leaves are appetizer, cholagogue, diuretic, hypoglycemic, laxative and tonic. The present study was designed to establish quality standards of C. intybus. Different Physiochemical Parameter like extractive values, ash values, were determine. Preliminary phytochemical screening was carried out to detect different phytoconstituents. Preliminary phytochemical screening of the extracts in different solvent revealed the presence of carbohydrates, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, alkaloids and proteins.  Heavy metals were determined and found within acceptable limits. Pesticides residues and aflatoxins were also determined but not found in the tested samples. The physicochemical and phytochemical standards which are outcome of this research may be utilized as substantial data for identification and standardization of C. intybus seeds.