Phytochemical analysis, standardization and antidiabetic effects of tinospora cordifolia stems

SUMMARY. Tinospora cordifolia (commonly known as guduchi) is a traditional plant which belongs to family menispermaceae. In traditional and homeopathic system, it has been utilized in control and man-agement of various diseases such as “jaundice, rheumatism, urinary disorder, skin diseases, diabetes, ane-mia, inflammation and allergy”. Due to these claims, the present work attempted to conduct phytochemi-cal analysis, standardization and antidiabetic activity of T. cordifolia. The sample of T. cordifolia was ob-tained from different geographical regions including UP, MP and New Delhi. The microscopic evaluation, physicochemical studies and phytochemical analysis, including analysis of cardiofolioside A using high-performance thin-layer chromatography technique was performed, which could help in rapid identifica-tion and selection of the active constituent from different adulterants. Based on pharmacognostical investi-gation, physicochemical characterization and the presence of maximum amount of cordifolioside A, the sample collected from UP, India was selected for antidiabetic evaluation in rats. The methanolic extract of T. cordifolia was found to reduce the blood glucose levels in rats and hence can be used for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. The results indicated the potential of T. cordifolia in the treatment of diabetes mellitus.