A brief communication on Pharmacognostic Standardisation and Pharmacological assessment of Himalayan Butterfly Bush

Commonly known as the Himalayan Butterfly Bush, <i>Buddleja crispa</i> Benth. is a deciduous shrub endemic to India, China, Nepal, and Pakistan. Despite potent enzyme inhibitory activities, there is sparse information on its Pharmacognostic parameters and phytopharmacological status. This work was conducted to establish its pharmacognostic profile and explore its calcicolous behaviour and pharmacological potential. Various parameters were considered concerning its inhabiting conditions viz. rock morphology, elemental composition of soil, histochemical localization of calcium oxalate crystals, etc. Pharmacognostic standardization includes the study of macroscopy, microscopy, and physicochemical features encompassing the detection of root fungal associations. In vitro Pharmacological evaluation involving antioxidant, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer activities was conducted to explore its potential in therapeutics. Morphological and microscopic studies determined anatomical characteristics. Soil analysis and calcicolous nature help establish the plant’s distinctive behaviour of calcium-retaining ability. Root fungal associations predict the plant’s interaction with fungus, which might be a consequence of mutualism. Further phytochemical investigations on <i>B. crispa</i> revealed the presence of secondary metabolites. Pharmacological data determined its potential as an antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer plant. This is the first study of this species to provide a comprehensive summary of Pharmacognostic parameters concerning its inhabiting conditions and root fungal traits. Further pharmacological results revealed its potential in therapeutics.