About Book
Text Book of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry–I is a comprehensive and student-friendly guide designed to build a strong foundation in the study of natural drugs and plant-based medicines. The book begins with a clear introduction to Pharmacognosy, covering its definition, history, scope, and development in a systematic manner. It explains the major sources of drugs including plants, animals, marine organisms, and tissue culture products. A detailed discussion on organized and unorganized drugs such as dried latex, juices, extracts, gums, mucilages, oleoresins, and oleo-gum-resins is included for better conceptual clarity. The text presents an in-depth chapter on the classification of crude drugs through alphabetical, morphological, chemical, and pharmacological approaches. It also highlights advanced methods like chemo-taxonomical and sero-taxonomical classification to connect taxonomy with chemistry and activity.Adulteration of drugs of natural origin is discussed with definition, classification, and suitable examples of crude drugs. The evaluation of crude drugs is explained in a structured way, starting from the basic definition and objectives. Multiple evaluation techniques—organoleptic, microscopic, physical, chemical, and biological—are described with relevant properties. Quantitative microscopy is given special focus to improve practical understanding and examination skills. Important methods such as the Lycopodium spore method, leaf constants, and camera lucida diagrams are also covered. The book further explains cultivation, collection, processing, and storage practices required for maintaining drug quality. It discusses the factors influencing cultivation of medicinal plants and the role of plant hormones in growth and yield improvement. Topics like polyploidy, mutation, and hybridization are included to connect genetics with medicinal plant production. Conservation of medicinal plants is emphasized to promote sustainability and responsible use of resources. A full section on plant tissue culture provides historical development, types of cultures, and nutritional requirements. It explains growth, maintenance, and practical applications of tissue culture in Pharmacognosy. Modern concepts such as edible vaccines are introduced to reflect current advancements in the field. The book also connects Pharmacognosy with various systems of medicine including Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Chinese medicine, and Allopathy.
About Author
Dr. Prashant Kumar Desai is a highly accomplished Associate Professor in the Department of Pharmacognosy at Lachoo Memorial College of Science and Technology (Autonomous), Jodhpur. He holds a Doctorate in Pharmacy (Pharmacognosy) from Rajasthan University of Health Sciences, Jaipur in 2014. He did his B. Pharm. degree from Choudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut in the year 2002 and completed his M. Pharm. Degree from Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bengaluru in the year 2006. With 19 years of teaching experience, Dr. Desai has expertise in various areas of Pharmacy, including Pharmacognosy, Phytochemistry, Herbal Drug Technology, Herbal formulation development and Instrumental Methods of Analysis. He is a paper setter and evaluator for multiple universities and has published more than 25 research papers in National and International Journals of Pharmacy. Dr. Desai has presented numerous research papers in national and international conferences. Dr. Desai is a life member of the Association of Pharmaceutical Teachers of India (APTI), Lachoo Alumni Pharmacy Association (LAPA), and a Registered Rajasthan Pharmacist. He is also a dedicated educator, having created and shared 57 video lectures on his YouTube channel (Dr. Prashant Kumar Desai), covering topics in Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry, specifically designed to benefit D. Pharm. 1st year, B.Pharm. IV, V, and VI semester students.
Dr Shweta Mishra, has completed her M. Pharm and Ph.D in Pharmacology with excellent academic record.The author recently working as Head of the department of Pharmacology at Guru Ramdas Khalsa Institute of Science and Technology (Pharmacy), Jabalpur(m.p).The author has 15 years experience in teaching and research.She has published her work in numerous national and international journals.She is also a free lance product consultant for prestigious pharmaceutical firm.
Dr. Preet Mohinder Singh is an accomplished academician and pharmacy educator with a strong commitment to teaching and professional excellence. He is currently working as the Principal at Doaba College of Pharmacy, Kharar, in district Mohali. With a total teaching experience of 25 years, he has contributed extensively to the growth and development of pharmacy education. Over the years, he has guided students with a focus on academic discipline, clinical relevance, and ethical practice. His leadership supports quality teaching, institutional development, and student-centered learning. Dr. Singh continues to inspire future pharmacists through his experience, dedication, and vision for the profession.
Dr. Rekha Tarasingh Rajput, currently working as Associate Professor,Sharda School of Pharmacy, Sharda University, Agra, (Formerly Anand College of Pharmacy, Keetham, Agra.), Agra-282005, Uttar Pradesh, India. She has completed her graduation from L.M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad (Gujarat University) and post-graduation from K.L.E. Society's College of Pharmacy, Belgaum (Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences) one of the prestigious and well-known universities and completed her Ph. D in Pharmaceutical Sciences on the topic entitled “Evaluation and Development of Anti-diabetic Polyherbal Formulation of Indian Medicinal Plants”. She has a total of 18+ years of teaching experience. She has more than 33 publications, 17 patents, 07 books and 01 book chapter and more than 100 International and national conferences attended. She is interested in the extraction, isolation, and purification of different c
Mrs. Rekha Solanki is a dedicated pharmacy professional and academician with a strong background in Pharmacognosy. She holds an M. Pharmacy degree from RKDF University, Bhopal, and has experience in teaching, healthcare supply chain management, and higher education. She has worked as a teacher, a supply chain executive during the COVID-19 period, and is currently serving as an Assistant Professor at Sage University, Indore. Known for her strong communication skills, discipline, and positive attitude, she is committed to continuous learning and teamwork. She is proficient in computer applications and holds certifications in COPA and PGDCA. Her interests include reading, listening to spiritual motivational talks, and swimming, reflecting a balanced professional and personal life.
