Page 365 - Pharmacognosy 2 PG303 (1)

Pharmacognosy-2 (PG303) Level 2 Clinical Pharmacy-Pharm D

Shape and
commercial product

Constituents Abietic acids (α,β,γ, 84%). • Resin (45-60%) • 2.5-8% yellowish-green thick volatile
They are formed, by the • Volatile oils (3-17%) oils.
effect of heat (Artifacts), from • Gum • 25-40% resin.
pimaric acid present • 60% gum of acacia type
in natural turpentine
Uses • Stimulant and diuretic. • Carminative • Antiseptic in mouthwash
• Ingredient of ointments and • expectorant preparations.
some varnishes. • antispasmodic • Uterine stimulant.
• Printing inks. • laxative • Recent studies revealed that
• Floor coverings. Myrrh is a new schistosomicidal
drug
Test for identity Test for abietic acid Freshly fractured surface of the tear:
:
0.5 g colophony + 5 mL One drop ofH2SO4, a bright red or
petroleum ether → shake → reddish-brown color is produced
filter →filtrate + equal volume which
of dil. Copper acetate T.S. → changes to bluish violet color upon
the pet. washing with water.
Ether layer assumes emerald One drop of 50%
green color HNO3,
a green color is produced
Test for combined umbelliferone:
1g Asafetida + 20mL (HCl + water)
→ Boil →filter into water made
strongly alkaline with strong soln. of
NH4OH → Blue fluorescence

299