Impact of season on phytochemistry with special reference to β-Asarone content, extract yield and Pharmacognostic parameter in rhizome of Acorus calamus L.

Demand of medicinal plants is growing exponentially due to its extensive use in nutraceutical, cosmeceutical and pharmaceutical industries. The major problem is the variation in quality and quantity of phytoconstituents with the collection of medicinal plants in each batch. Though, the quality and quantity of phytoconstituents in plants are influenced by various factors, chief among them is seasonal variation. Rhizome of Acorus calamus L. is used in treatment of neurological disorder specially in children. The Ayurvedic system of medicine believes blends of constituent imparts therapeutic activities. The main chemical constituent responsible for cognition enhancement is Asarone. An attempt has been taken to record change in Pharmacognostic parameter with season and evaluate the best collection time of rhizome of Acaorus calamus L. with special reference to extractive value and asarone content.