Phytochemical Testing Methodologies and Principles for Preliminary Screening/ Qualitative Testing
Luvedika Maheshwaran
Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, General Sir John Kotelawala Defense University, Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Ladhurshika Nadarajah
Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, General Sir John Kotelawala Defense University, Colombo, Sri Lanka.
S. P. N. N. Senadeera
Department of Zoology and Environment Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka.
C. B. Ranaweera *
Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, General Sir John Kotelawala Defense University, Colombo, Sri Lanka.
A. K. Chandana
Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, General Sir John Kotelawala Defense University, Colombo, Sri Lanka.
R. N. Pathirana
Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, General Sir John Kotelawala Defense University, Colombo, Sri Lanka.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Plants are basically biosynthetic factories that contain various pathways that produce phytochemicals with the help of different parts of the cell while specialized cells or tissues hoard and use them as needed. Human population has used this to their advantage for centuries.
Aims: This review article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to qualitative phytochemical tests, focusing on their principles, procedures, and interpretation of results.
Scope of Review: This review covers qualitative tests for major phytochemical groups, including alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and phenols.
Methodology: Various qualitative tests are compiled and described, detailing the chemical principles underpinning each test and the expected outcomes for the identification of phytochemicals.
Summary of Findings: Qualitative phytochemical tests are highlighted for their simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and accessibility, making them valuable tools, particularly in resource-limited settings. These tests provide baseline information on phytochemical profiles and serve as initial screening tools that can lead to more detailed studies.
Conclusion: While advanced analytical techniques exist, qualitative methods remain essential for initial phytochemical screening due to their practical advantages. This review emphasizes the importance of these classical techniques in both research and practical applications.
Keywords: Phytochemicals, phytochemical screening, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, phenols