EVALUATION OF PHYSICOCHEMICAL, PHYTOCHEMICAL AND ANTIOXIDANT PROPERTIES OF ZANTHOXYLUM RHETSA (ROXB). DC. BARK.

The plant Zanthoxylum rhetsa (ROXB). DC. (Indian prickly ash) is commonly available in Dakshina Kannada District of Karnataka State, widely distributed in Western Ghats and subtropical areas, and is used in many traditional practices; it is known for its folklore use in the varicose vein, the condition of Varicose vein known as Siraja Granthi in Ayurveda. To explore the folklore utility of the plant Z. rhetsa therapeutically, the plant's bark is subjected to evaluate its Physicochemical, Phytochemical, and Antioxidant properties. These procedures are carried out using API guidelines (Ayurvedic Pharmacopeia of India). The drug was obtained from its natural habitat and authentified. Phytochemical studies revealed the presence of flavonoids, saponins, tannins, carbohydrates, and proteins. The DPPH Assay has shown dependent antioxidant activity.