Chromatographic studies on Benincasa hispida (thunb.) Cogn. Seed extract scrutinized by HPLC and HPTLC

Background: Benincasa hispida (Thunb.) Cogn. is an extensive climbing annual herb in an agricultural country like India. Lupeol, a constituent of this species, has been reported to possess good amount of pharmacological potential. Objective: In the current studies, the research team focused on determining the percentage of the lupeol present in the extract of Benincasa hispida seeds by chromatographic techniques. Materials and Methods: Shade-dried seeds of Benincasa hispida were subjected to soxhlet extraction followed by scrutinization of the lupeol contents by HPTLC and HPLC methods after carrying out preliminary phytochemical screening for the constituents present in the extract. Results: The extraction yield was found to be 1.2% (w/w). Phytochemical screening of the extract revealed the presence of carbohydrates, glycosides, alkaloids, fixed oils and fats, tannins phenolic compounds, steroids and flavonoids. The amount of lupeol present in the seeds extract was found to be 0.47% w/w (HPTLC)and 6.85% w/v (HPLC) by HPTLC quantification and HPLC analysis respectively. Research studies showed a peak which coincided with the peak of standard lupeol signifying the presence of lupeol in the extract. Conclusion: The extract contains significant amount of lupeol.

Key words:Benincasa hispida, Soxhlet extraction, HPLC, HPTLC, lupeol.