Pharmacognostic standardization in two underutilised species of Cleome

The genus Cleome belongs to the family Cleomaceae. Most of the species of the genus are considered as weeds but some are reported to possess nutritional and medicinal properties. The present investigation deals with two abundantly available, but less utilized species of Cleome, C. viscosa and C. burmanni. Pharmacognostic studies included the determination of organoleptic, physico-chemical (21 parameters), proximate (21 parameters), mineral (six macro- and 14 microelements) and anti-nutritional (seven parameters) factors of the dried plant powder. The powder of both species exhibited several desirable attributes so that the samples could be subsequently used in the form of a drug. Organoleptic analysis revealed the characteristic color, taste, odor and nature of the powder of C. viscosa and C. burmanni. The physico-chemical parameters play an important role in detecting adulteration or improper handling of drugs. Proximate and elemental quantification revealed the nutritive value of these species. The anti-nutrients were in low amount which adds to the nutritional worth of these species.