Pharmacognostical Study, Phytochemical Screening And Formulation Development From Achras Sapota Bark Extract For Anti-Inflammatory Anti-Arthritis And Skin Irritation Study

This study examines the pharmacognostic, phytochemical, and pharmacological characteristics of the bark extract of Achras sapota (Sapodilla) to facilitate the development of a phytopharmaceutical formulation. Extraction utilized solvents of increasing polarity petroleum ether, chloroform, and methanol resulting in yields of 2.5%, 1.9%, and 10.0% (w/w), respectively. Initial phytochemical analysis indicated the presence of alkaloids, steroids, and Triterpenoids in the petroleum ether extract; glycosides, alkaloids, and carbohydrates in the chloroform extract; and tannins and flavonoids in the methanol extract. The chromatographic analysis via TLC and HPTLC revealed unique phytoconstituents with RF values between 0.79 and 0.98. UV spectral analysis indicated a peak absorption at 229.8 nm, implying the existence of conjugated systems. IR spectroscopy of the isolated product identified typical functional groups, including hydroxyl, carbonyl, and aromatic moieties, signifying the presence of phenolic and carbonyl-containing compounds. ^1H NMR spectroscopy validated the identification of Gallic acid, a Polyphenolic molecule, as a principal ingredient. The antioxidant capacity was evaluated with the DPPH radical scavenging test. The bark extract demonstrated significant free radical scavenging activity, with percent inhibition between 39% and 52.89%, in comparison to normal ascorbic acid (40.5%–65.04%), suggesting considerable antioxidant capacity. In conclusion, the results indicate that Achras sapota bark is a substantial source of bioactive phytochemicals, including gallic acid, which may possess antioxidant properties. These findings warrant additional investigation and application in the manufacture of herbal remedies for therapeutic purposes.