Exploring the Therapeutic Treasure Trove of <i>Bergenia ligulata</i>: Unveiling the Potential of Indian Rhubarb

Abstract

Bergenia ligulata, commonly known as Indian rhubarb or Paashaanbhed, is a perennial herb native to the Himalayan region and widely distributed in the alpine regions of India, Nepal, and Bhutan. It belongs to the family Saxifragaceae and is characterized by large, leathery leaves and pink flowers. Traditionally, various parts of Bergenia ligulata have been used in Ayurveda, traditional Chinese medicine, and folk medicine systems for their medicinal properties. One of the key bioactive constituents identified in Bergenia ligulata is bergenin (C₁₄H₁₆O₉), a naturally occurring glycoside. Bergenin, also known as cuscutin or isocynodontin, is a white crystalline compound that exhibits a wide range of pharmacological activities. It has drawn significant attention from researchers and pharmaceutical industries due to its diverse biological properties and potential therapeutic applications. Bergenin has been the subject of numerous scientific studies exploring its antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, antiurolithiatic, and other pharmacological activities. These properties make bergenin a promising candidate for the development of novel therapeutic agents for various ailments. In this article, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of Bergenia ligulata, with a focus on bergenin, including its biological source, traditional uses, pharmacological importance, extraction methods, solvent selection, and analytical techniques for quantification. Additionally, we will delve into the analytical significance of High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) in the extraction and quantification of bergenin from Bergenia ligulata.