Pharmacognostic Standardization, Heavy Metal Analysis and Antioxidant Potential of Iris kashmiriana Baker Rhizome

Background: Iris kashmiriana Baker, often known as Mazarmond, is a plant species classified under the Iridaceae family. This specific botanical specimen has notable therapeutic properties and has been traditionally used for the treatment of many diseases. The rhizomes are considered to be a substantial repository of secondary metabolites and have been extensively investigated for their potential in many activities, including immunomodulation, anticancer capabilities, antibacterial effects, and anthelmintic qualities. Currently, there is a lack of study about the establishment of standardization methods for the plant. Aim: the purpose of this research was to conduct standardization, phytochemical analysis, heavy metal analysis, and assessment of the antioxidant capacity of the rhizomes of Iris kashmiriana Baker, a native plant found in the Kashmir valley. Materials and Methods: The botanical specimens were gathered, subjected to a process of air drying in a shaded environment, and afterwards ground into a fine powder. The techniques used for conducting pharmacognostic investigations and phytochemical screening were in compliance with the guidelines set out by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Indian Pharmacopoeia. Results: Several distinct features were observed after the implementation of organoleptic, microscopic examination, standardization, and phytochemical analysis. The quantities of all heavy metals were found to be under the acceptable range set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Furthermore, the plant extracts demonstrated significant antioxidant activity. Conclusion: This research serves as a first endeavour in the process of standardizing Iris kashmiriana rhizomes, with the objective of creating a comprehensive profile of their attributes. The results obtained from this inquiry may be used as a valuable point of reference for taxonomic verification and quality control of the perennial plant. Furthermore, the use of standardized rhizomes may be investigated as a potential alternative in the field of medicine for addressing various ailments. This alternative approach presents a higher level of safety and a decreased likelihood of unpleasant responses.