Thermal Analytical Characterization of Gymnema sylvestre Using TGA-DTA Technique

Abstract

Gymnema sylvestre, a well-known antidiabetic plant, has been extensively studied for its therapeutic potential across various traditional medicine systems. It is widely used to treat a range of ailments in humans. In modern herbal medicine, drug standardization is critical to ensure the quality and purity of herbal drugs. The TGA-DTA (Thermogravimetric Analysis - Differential Thermal Analysis) technique is commonly employed to study the physical and chemical changes of various herbal substances. In this study, the thermal and chemical characteristics of powdered leaves, stems, and roots of Gymnema sylvestre were analysed using TGA-DTA methods. TGA (Thermogravimetric Analysis) and DTA (Differential Thermal Analysis) are sophisticated thermal analysis techniques commonly used to examine the thermal properties, stability, and composition of a wide range of materials, including medicinal plants, pharmaceuticals, polymers, and other substances. The TGA and DTA curves were recorded over the temperature range of 35°C to 700°C to examine the decomposition patterns of Gymnema sylvestre plant material. In the DTA curve, an endothermic peak at 101°C was observed in all samples, corresponding to the evaporation of water from the surface and pores of the powder. A second weight loss between 350°C and 400°C is attributed to the degradation of cellulose and hemicellulose present in the plant. Further analysis suggests the possibility of lignin degradation occurring between 450°C and 700°C as the temperature is extended. The TGA analysis of the powdered leaves, stems, and roots of G. sylvestre provides valuable insights into the stability and composition of this medicinal plant. These results offer supporting data that can be utilized for the identification and standardization of Gymnema sylvestre in herbal drug analysis.