Comparative Phytochemical Evaluation of Barbaloin in Aloe Socotrina Linn. Derived From Tissue Culture and Wild Sources Using Lc–Ms/Ms And Uv Spectroscopy

Abstract

Background: Standardisation of homoeopathic medicinal plants is essential to ensure consistency and reproducibility of therapeutic preparations. Aloe socotrina Linn. is widely used in homoeopathy, with barbaloin as its key phytoconstituent. However, variability in phytochemical content due to environmental factors poses challenges. Tissue culture offers a controlled alternative for plant propagation. Aim: To compare the presence and concentration of barbaloin in Aloe socotrina derived from tissue culture and wild sources. Methods: An experimental comparative study was conducted using LC–MS/MS and UV spectrophotometric analysis. Mother tinctures were prepared as per Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia standards. Barbaloin identification was performed using a standard reference compound. Quantitative comparison was based on peak area and absorbance values. Results: Both samples exhibited identical retention times (~12.3–12.6 min) and m/z values of approximately 417, confirming the presence of barbaloin. Tissue culture samples showed higher peak area (597,879 vs 525,093) and higher UV absorbance. Statistical analysis indicated p < 0.05, confirming a significant difference. Conclusion: Tissue culture-derived Aloe socotrina is qualitatively identical but quantitatively superior in barbaloin content, supporting its use in homoeopathic standardisation.