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Planta Med 2009; 75 - P-18
DOI: 10.1055/s-2009-1216456

Authentication of Caralluma adscendens var. fimbriata (Wall.) Gravely & Mayur

VC Joshi 1, AS Rao 1, YH Wang 1, B Avula 1, IA Khan 1, 2
  • 1National Center for Natural Products Research, School of Pharmacy, The University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
  • 2Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, The University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA

Caralluma is an edible succulent plant used by tribes in India to suppress hunger and enhance endurance [1]. It is a new arrival in the family of succulent plants that are becoming increasingly popular for their appetite suppressant and weight loss properties as well as their ability to lower blood sugar. Accurate identity of the raw material is critically important, to ensure the efficacy and safety of these products. Available herbal monographs lack information on Caralluma. The present study, details the macroscopic and microscopic evaluation of Caralluma adscendens var. fimbriata along with details on its distribution and nomenclature. Acknowledgements: This research is funded in part by “Botanical Dietary Supplements: Science-Base for Authentication” funded by Food and Drug Administration grant number FD-U-002071-01. We would like to thank Dr. Aparna Watve and Dr. Gaikwari, from Hi-Tech Bio laboratories, India for providing authenticated plant material. References: [1] Kuriyan R, et al. (2007) Appetite 48: 338–344.