Comprehensive In Vitro Phytochemical Characterization Of Ayurvedic Medicinal Plants From Jammu Division, J&K, India: Elucidating Their Pharmacological Relevance In Gynaecological Disease Management

Abstract

Gynaecological disorders remain a major global health concern, with conventional therapeutics often limited by side effects and accessibility. Traditional Ayurvedic medicine offers promising alternatives, yet scientific validation of its medicinal plants is incomplete. Here, we conducted a comprehensive in vitro phytochemical characterization of eight Ayurvedic herbs from the Jammu Division, J&K, India, traditionally employed in women’s health. Sequential solvent extraction (hexane, ethyl acetate, methanol) was performed, followed by qualitative screening and quantitative spectrophotometric assays for carbohydrates, proteins, alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, saponins, phenolics, and steroids. Extraction yields varied from 14.74, 43.84%, with Punica granatum stem and leaves showing the highest recovery (43.84%). Qualitative screening confirmed the broad presence of secondary metabolites across species, while quantitative profiling revealed distinct compound distributions. Notably, Cissampelos pareira exhibited the highest alkaloid content (137.57 µg/mL), Vitex negundo was richest in saponins and phenolics (90.13 µg/mL), and P. granatum stem and leaves showed maximal flavonoids (100.19 µg/mL). The universal detection of flavonoids, steroids, and alkaloids supports their therapeutic roles in hormonal modulation, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant pathways relevant to gynaecological disorders. Our findings provide scientific validation of ethnomedicinal knowledge, establish reference ranges for phytochemical standardization, and highlight the polypharmacological potential of these species. This work bridges traditional practices with modern phytopharmacology, laying a foundation for developing standardized herbal formulations for women’s reproductive health.