Evaluation of the pharmacognostic parameters, qualitative phytochemical profile and investigation of the toxicity of Sacoglottis ceratocarpa Ducke containing Bergenin, a gallic acid derivative

Abstract

Trunk barks of Sacoglottis ceratocarpa Ducke (ScTB) are used in Amazonian folk medicine against hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia, although scientific information on efficacy and quality control is lacking. Thus, pharmacognostic parameters, qualitative phytochemical profile, antioxidant properties
(DPPH, TEAC and FRAP), toxicity and cytotoxicity were evaluated. The purity tests in the quality control performed for the vegetable raw material showed compliance with the specifications in official compendiums. Tannins, catechins, terpenes and steroids were characterized. Bergenin, a gallic acid
derivative, was isolated and identified. The ScTB was rich in total phenolic (0.420-0.562 g/g) and flavonoid (11.37-24.31 mg/g) content, and considerable antioxidant potential. ScTB did not demonstrate cytotoxicity for human erythrocytes and renal fibroblasts, nor toxicity for brine shrimp. The results
demonstrated the importance of the pharmacognostic study for the immediate knowledge of the quality and qualitative chemical profile of the trunk barks, contributing to the safe and effective use of the species.