PHYTOCHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF RUBIA CORDIFOLIA (MANJISTA) AND ITS THERAPEUTIC RELEVANCE IN AYURVEDA

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Rubia cordifolia L. (Manjista) is a well-known medicinal herb extensively utilized in Ayurvedic
medicine for its diverse therapeutic applications. Traditionally, it has been valued for its blood-
purifying, anti-inflammatory, and dermatological benefits. The present study aimed to investigate
the phytochemical profile of Manjista and provide scientific evidence supporting its traditional
medicinal uses. Qualitative phytochemical screening was carried out using established analytical
procedures to identify the presence of major bioactive constituents, including alkaloids, flavonoids,
tannins, glycosides, saponins, and phenolic compounds. The analysis revealed a significant presence
of flavonoids, along with appreciable amounts of tannins, alkaloids, glycosides, saponins, and
phenolic constituents. These phytochemicals are widely recognized for their antioxidant,
antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities, which may contribute to the therapeutic efficacy of
the plant. The findings are consistent with previously reported studies and further strengthen the
scientific basis for the use of Rubia cordifolia in traditional healthcare systems. Moreover, the study
emphasizes the importance of integrating modern phytochemical evaluation techniques with
traditional Ayurvedic knowledge to validate herbal medicines. Overall, the results highlight the
potential of Manjista as a valuable source of bioactive compounds for future pharmaceutical
development and encourage further quantitative, pharmacological, and clinical investigations.