Pharmacognostic characterisation of flowers Woodfordia fruiticosa Kurz. (Dhataki Pushpa) used as fermentation initiators

Background: Woodfordia fruiticosa Kurz. flowers are highly valued medicinal material used in Indian System of Medicine. They are used as fermentation initiators in medicated alcoholic preparations like asavas and arishtas. In addition to this, flowers are recommended in acute diarrhoea, haemorrhages, ulceration and erysipelas. Authentication of herbal drug by macro-microscopic and chemical characterization should be the primary criteria prior to its usage. Materials and Methods: In the current study flowers of W. fruiticosa are collected and subjected for macro-microscopic and physico-chemical analysis aiding standard methodology. Results: Macro-microscopic features of different parts of a flower are documented along with their photographs. Physico-chemical values like total ash, acid insoluble ash, water soluble ash, ethanol soluble extractive and water soluble extractive are recorded. Conclusion: Macro-microscopic atlas; along with physico-chemical value serve as reference standard for identification and distinguishing the sample from its substitutes and adulterants.