Pharmacognostic Characterization and Antioxidant Potential of Abutilon crispum (Malvaceae): An Underexplored Traditional Medicinal Plant

Abutilon crispum (Family: Malvaceae) is a traditionally used yet underexplored medicinal plant known for its applications in managing respiratory ailments, wound healing, and inflammatory conditions. Despite its ethnomedicinal relevance, comprehensive scientific data on its pharmacognostic attributes and bioactive potential remain scarce. This study aimed to authenticate the plant material, investigate its anatomical characteristics, and evaluate the antioxidant activity of its ethanol extract. Stems of A. crispum were collected from their natural habitat, taxonomically authenticated, and a voucher specimen (A260325272C) was deposited for future reference. The plant material was shadedried, pulverized, and subjected to cold maceration using ethanol. The extract was concentrated under reduced pressure, yielding 23.18%, indicative of a high content of ethanol-soluble phytoconstituents such as flavonoids, phenolics, and glycosides. Anatomical examination of transverse stem sections revealed typical dicotyledonous features, including a single-layered epidermis with multicellular trichomes, a collenchymatous cortex, open vascular bundles arranged in a ring, and a prominent parenchymatous pith—traits consistent with the Malvaceae family. The antioxidant potential of the ethanol extract was assessed using the DPPH radical scavenging assay, with ascorbic acid serving as the standard. The extract exhibited concentration-dependent free radical scavenging activity, achieving 56.95 ± 1.29% inhibition at 100 µg/mL, compared to 90.15 ± 1.51% for ascorbic acid. The IC₅₀ value of 74.04 µg/mL indicated moderate antioxidant efficacy. These findings support the traditional use of A. crispum and underscore its potential as a natural source of antioxidants. Further phytochemical and pharmacological investigations are recommended to explore its therapeutic applications.