Evaluating Seasonal Variations in Total Phenol and Flavonoid Retention in Stem Powder of hemiparasite Dendropthoe falcata var pubescens (Hook.f)

Abstract

The hemiparasite Dendropthoe falcata var pubescens, belonging to family Loranthaceae, is known as “vanda” in the Indian Ayurvedic system. Due to the abundance of phenols and flavonoids in the entire plant, it is significant from an ethno-botanical perspective. Widely utilized in traditional medicine, the plant is reputed for its therapeutic properties, including cooling, bitter, astringent, aphrodisiac, narcotic, and diuretic effects. Environmental factors such as temperature, photoperiod, and seasonal changes substantially influence the phytochemical profile of the plant. This study was undertaken to evaluate the impact of seasonal variations on the total phenol and flavonoid content in the dried stem powder of D. falcata. Conducted over two consecutive years, the investigation focused on three seasons: rainy, winter, and summer. Statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA revealed significant seasonal variations (p ≤ 0.01) in the phytochemical composition of the dried stem powder. Thus, the optimal sampling is necessary for utilization of plants in traditional medicine and phyto-pharmaceutical applications.