Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry - Download Free PDF

Last updated on Jun 6, 2025

Latest Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry MCQ Objective Questions

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 1:

Consider the following statements about crude drug adulteration:

  1. Substitution with a cheaper plant is a form of adulteration.
  2. Deliberate addition of foreign matter is known as intentional adulteration.
  3. Using exhausted drugs is a type of sophisticated adulteration.
  4. Adulteration is always accidental and never intentional.
  5. Adulteration affects drug efficacy and safety.

Which statements are correct?

  1. 1, 2, 3, and 5 only 
  2. 2, 3, and 4 only
  3. 1, 2, and 4 only
  4. 1, 3, and 5 only

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : 1, 2, 3, and 5 only 

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 1 Detailed Solution

Correct Answer: 1, 2, 3, and 5 only
Rationale:
  • Crude drug adulteration is a major concern in Pharmacognosy and drug quality control. It involves any intentional or unintentional practice that compromises the purity, safety, and efficacy of natural drugs.
  • Statement 1: ✅ Correct. Substituting a genuine drug with a **cheaper, inferior plant** is a common form of **intentional adulteration**, especially when the authentic source is costly or scarce.
  • Statement 2: ✅ Correct. The **deliberate addition of foreign matter** such as sand, stones, or starch to increase weight or bulk is a classic case of **intentional adulteration** aimed at economic gain.
  • Statement 3: ✅ Correct. **Using exhausted drugs** (after extraction of active constituents) and mixing them with fresh batches is termed **sophisticated adulteration** and is hard to detect without chemical testing.
  • Statement 4: ❌ Incorrect. Adulteration can be both **intentional** and **accidental**. Accidental adulteration may occur due to lack of knowledge, misidentification, or improper handling.
  • Statement 5: ✅ Correct. Adulteration can significantly **reduce the efficacy** and **safety** of drugs by altering their chemical composition and pharmacological action, posing health risks.
Explanation of Other Options:
Option 2) 2, 3, and 4 only
  • Rationale: Incorrect. Statement 4 is false because adulteration can also be intentional. Additionally, this option ignores statement 1, which is correct and important.
Option 3) 1, 2, and 4 only
  • Rationale: Incorrect. Statement 4 is incorrect and statement 3 (sophisticated adulteration) is wrongly excluded. This makes the option invalid.
Option 4) 1, 3, and 5 only
  • Rationale: Incorrect. While these statements are true, it omits statement 2, which is an essential point regarding intentional adulteration practices.
Conclusion:
  • The correct combination is **statements 1, 2, 3, and 5**. These comprehensively describe the methods, intent, and effects of crude drug adulteration, which is critical for ensuring drug quality and patient safety in Pharmacognosy.

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 2:

Consider the following statements about glycosides:

  1. Glycosides are compounds in which sugar is bound to a non-sugar moiety.
  2. Aglycone is the sugar part of the glycoside.
  3. Most cardiac glycosides are water-insoluble.
  4. Glycosides undergo hydrolysis in the presence of dilute acid.

Which of the above statements are correct?

  1. 1, 2, and 3 only
  2. 1 and 4 only
  3. 1, 3, and 4 only 
  4. 2, 3, and 4 only

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 3 : 1, 3, and 4 only 

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 2 Detailed Solution

Correct Answer: Statements 1, 3, and 4 are correct
Rationale:
  • This question evaluates conceptual understanding of **glycosides**, a class of phytoconstituents found in many medicinal plants. Glycosides consist of two parts: a sugar component and a non-sugar component (aglycone).
  • Statement 1: ✅ Correct. Glycosides are chemical compounds where a **sugar (glycone)** is bound to a **non-sugar moiety (aglycone)** via a glycosidic bond. This is a standard definition in pharmacognosy.
  • Statement 2: ❌ Incorrect. The **aglycone** is the **non-sugar** part of the glycoside, not the sugar part. The sugar part is called the **glycone**. This is a common conceptual error.
  • Statement 3: ✅ Correct. **Cardiac glycosides** (e.g., digoxin) are generally **poorly water-soluble** due to the nature of their aglycone (steroidal) moiety, which is lipophilic.
  • Statement 4: ✅ Correct. Glycosides can be **hydrolyzed** in the presence of **dilute acids or enzymes**, breaking the bond between sugar and aglycone, releasing both components.
Explanation of Other Options:
Statement 2: Aglycone is the sugar part of the glycoside
  • Rationale: This statement is incorrect. The aglycone is the **non-sugar** component. The sugar component is called the **glycone**. These two together form a glycoside.
Conclusion:
  • Among the four statements, **1, 3, and 4** are correct. Understanding the structure, solubility, and hydrolysis of glycosides is essential in Pharmacognosy for identifying their pharmacological roles and analytical behavior.

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 3:

Match the drugs with their plant parts used:

Column A Column B
A. Senna 1. Root
B. Ginger 2. Bark
C. Cinchona 3. Rhizome
D. Rauwolfia 4. Leaf

  1. A-1, B-4, C-3, D-2
  2. A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
  3. A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1 
  4. A-3, B-2, C-1, D-4

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 3 : A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1 

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 3 Detailed Solution

Correct Answer: A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
Rationale:
  • This question assesses your understanding of the specific plant parts used in the preparation of important herbal drugs in Pharmacognosy. Each plant has a distinct part used based on its active constituents and traditional therapeutic applications.
  • Senna – The **leaf** is the primary part used for its content of anthraquinone glycosides (sennosides), which act as a laxative.
  • Ginger – The **rhizome** (underground stem) is used. It contains volatile oils and gingerols that provide carminative, antiemetic, and anti-inflammatory effects.
  • Cinchona – The **bark** of this plant contains alkaloids such as quinine and is used mainly for its antimalarial properties.
  • Rauwolfia – The **root** is the part used. It contains the alkaloid reserpine, which is used for antihypertensive and sedative effects.
Explanation of Other Options:
Option 1) A-1, B-4, C-3, D-2
  • Rationale: Incorrect. Senna is wrongly matched with root instead of leaf. Ginger is incorrectly paired with leaf instead of rhizome. Rauwolfia is wrongly matched with bark instead of root.
Option 2) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
  • Rationale: Incorrect. Senna is incorrectly matched with bark instead of leaf, and Rauwolfia with rhizome instead of root. The overall matching shows confusion between stem and underground parts.
Option 4) A-3, B-2, C-1, D-4
  • Rationale: Incorrect. Senna is incorrectly paired with rhizome and Rauwolfia with leaf, which are not the correct plant parts used in drug formulation.
Conclusion:
  • The correct pairing of drugs with their plant parts is: Senna – Leaf, Ginger – Rhizome, Cinchona – Bark, Rauwolfia – Root. These identifications are essential in Pharmacognosy for authentication, standardization, and proper therapeutic usage of crude drugs.

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 4:

Match the following natural drugs with their therapeutic uses:

Column A Column B
A. Liquorice 1. CNS stimulant
B. Senna 2. Expectorant
C. Nux vomica 3. Laxative
D. Ergot 4. Oxytocic

  1. A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
  2. A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1
  3. A-4, B-1, C-3, D-2
  4. A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 4 : A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 4 Detailed Solution

Correct Answer: A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4
Rationale:
  • This question evaluates the understanding of therapeutic applications of plant-based natural drugs in Pharmacognosy. Each plant listed is associated with a specific pharmacological action due to its bioactive constituents.
  • Liquorice contains glycyrrhizin and is commonly used as an expectorant in treating cough and respiratory issues due to its soothing effect on the mucous membranes.
  • Senna contains anthraquinone glycosides such as sennosides, making it a well-known laxative used for treating constipation.
  • Nux vomica contains strychnine and brucine, which act as CNS stimulants, though they are toxic and used under careful regulation.
  • Ergot contains ergot alkaloids that produce uterine muscle contractions, classifying it as an oxytocic drug, especially in obstetrics for postpartum hemorrhage control.
Explanation of Other Options:
Option 1) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
  • Rationale: Incorrect. Liquorice is mistakenly matched with CNS stimulant, while it is primarily used as an expectorant. Senna is wrongly linked to expectorant, instead of its correct use as a laxative.
Option 2) A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1
  • Rationale: Incorrect. Senna is incorrectly matched with oxytocic, and Ergot is placed under CNS stimulant, which is inaccurate. This option misplaces all therapeutic categories.
Option 3) A-4, B-1, C-3, D-2
  • Rationale: Incorrect. Liquorice is wrongly matched with oxytocic, and Senna with CNS stimulant. Such mismatches display a misunderstanding of the core pharmacognostic therapeutic roles.
Conclusion:
  • The correct therapeutic mappings are: Liquorice – Expectorant, Senna – Laxative, Nux vomica – CNS stimulant, and Ergot – Oxytocic. These associations are essential for understanding how plant-based drugs function pharmacologically and are used in therapeutic settings.

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 5:

Match the following phytoconstituents with their identification tests:

Column A Column B
A. Alkaloids 1. Legal’s test
B. Glycosides 2. Keller-Killiani test
C. Tannins 3. Ferric chloride test
D. Steroids 4. Dragendorff’s test

  1. A-4, B-2, C-3, D-1
  2. A-1, B-4, C-2, D-3
  3. A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4
  4. A-3, B-1, C-4, D-2

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : A-4, B-2, C-3, D-1

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 5 Detailed Solution

Correct Answer: A-4, B-2, C-3, D-1
Rationale:
  • This question assesses knowledge of the identification tests used in phytochemical screening of natural products, which is essential in Pharmacognosy for drug authentication and quality control.
  • Alkaloids are nitrogenous compounds identified by Dragendorff’s test, which gives an orange-red precipitate indicating presence of alkaloids.
  • Glycosides, particularly cardiac glycosides, are confirmed using the Keller-Killiani test, which gives a reddish-brown ring at the junction of two layers.
  • Tannins are phenolic compounds detected by the Ferric chloride test, which produces a blue-black or green color.
  • Steroids are identified by the Legal’s test, which involves reaction with sodium nitroprusside in pyridine, giving a red color.
Explanation of Other Options:
Option 2) A-1, B-4, C-2, D-3
  • Rationale: Incorrect. Alkaloids are wrongly matched with Legal’s test, and glycosides with Dragendorff’s. These tests are not used for those respective phytoconstituents, leading to confusion in compound identification.
Option 3) A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4
  • Rationale: Incorrect. This option completely mismatches the tests: alkaloids with Keller-Killiani, glycosides with ferric chloride, and tannins with Legal’s test. All are scientifically incorrect associations.
Option 4) A-3, B-1, C-4, D-2
  • Rationale: Incorrect. Tannins are wrongly matched with Dragendorff’s test and alkaloids with ferric chloride, which do not apply. Steroids matched with Keller-Killiani is also false.
Conclusion:
  • The correctly matched pairings are: Alkaloids – Dragendorff’s test, Glycosides – Keller-Killiani test, Tannins – Ferric chloride test, Steroids – Legal’s test. This set of matches is fundamental for identification and evaluation of crude drugs in Pharmacognosy and pharmaceutical quality control.

Top Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry MCQ Objective Questions

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 6:

Eugenol is contained in.

  1. Clove 
  2. Capsicum
  3. Cardamom
  4. Coriander

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : Clove 

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 6 Detailed Solution

Correct Answer: Clove
Rationale:
  • Eugenol is a compound that is primarily found in cloves. It is a colorless or pale yellow oily liquid extracted from certain essential oils, especially from clove oil, nutmeg, cinnamon, basil, and bay leaf. Eugenol has a spicy, clove-like aroma.
  • Clove oil, which contains about 70-90% eugenol, is used in perfumeries, flavorings, essential oils, and in medicine as a local antiseptic and anesthetic.
  • Eugenol is also known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antibacterial properties, making it useful in dental care and other medicinal applications.
Explanation of Other Options:
Capsicum
  • Capsicum, commonly known as bell peppers or chili peppers, contains capsaicin, not eugenol. Capsaicin is responsible for the heat in chili peppers and has various health benefits, including pain relief.
Cardamom
  • Cardamom is a spice that contains essential oils such as 1,8-cineole and α-terpineol, but it does not contain eugenol. It is known for its aromatic flavor and is used extensively in cooking and traditional medicine.
Coriander
  • Coriander, also known as cilantro, contains essential oils like linalool and pinene but not eugenol. It is commonly used as a spice and herb in culinary dishes and has various health benefits, including digestive aid and anti-inflammatory properties.
Conclusion:
  • Among the given options, cloves are the correct source of eugenol. This compound is widely used for its medicinal properties and aromatic qualities, distinguishing cloves from other spices listed in the options.
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Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 7:

Gingko biloba is used for its 

  1. Expectorant activity
  2. PAF antagonistic activity 
  3. Lipid lowering activity
  4. Antidepressant activity

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 4 : Antidepressant activity

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 7 Detailed Solution

Correct Answer: Antidepressant activity
Rationale:
  • Ginkgo biloba has been studied for its potential antidepressant effects, specifically in improving mood and cognitive functions. It is believed to positively influence neurotransmitter activity and improve blood flow to the brain.
  • Some research suggests that Ginkgo biloba may help alleviate symptoms of depression, particularly in older adults or those with cognitive decline, by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain.
  • Its antioxidant properties and ability to improve cerebral circulation may contribute to its antidepressant effects.
Explanation of Other Options:
Expectorant activity
  • Rationale: Expectorants help clear mucus from the respiratory tract. Ginkgo biloba is not primarily known for this activity.
PAF antagonistic activity
  • Rationale: While Ginkgo biloba does have PAF antagonistic properties, which can improve blood circulation and cognitive functions, in the context of this question, its antidepressant activity is being emphasized.
Lipid lowering activity
  • Rationale: Lipid-lowering agents reduce cholesterol levels. Ginkgo biloba is not commonly associated with significant lipid-lowering effects.
Conclusion:
  • The correct answer is Antidepressant activity. Ginkgo biloba has demonstrated potential in alleviating symptoms of depression and improving mood through its effects on neurotransmitter activity and cerebral blood flow.

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 8:

Reserpine is derived from. 

  1. Squalene
  2. Homoserine
  3. Tryptophan and tryptamine 
  4. Asparagine

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 4 : Asparagine

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 8 Detailed Solution

Correct Answer: Asparagine
Rationale:
  • Reserpine is an indole alkaloid derived from the roots of Rauwolfia serpentina and other species of Rauwolfia. It is used as an antihypertensive and antipsychotic medication.
  • Reserpine's biosynthesis involves the amino acid asparagine, which is a key precursor in the pathway leading to the production of this compound.
  • Asparagine is an amino acid that plays a crucial role in the synthesis of proteins and other vital compounds. In the case of reserpine, it serves as a building block in its complex biosynthetic pathway.
Explanation of Other Options:
Squalene
  • Rationale: Squalene is a natural organic compound originally obtained from shark liver oil, though it is also found in various plant sources. It is a precursor to steroids and other triterpenes but is not involved in the biosynthesis of reserpine.
Homoserine
  • Rationale: Homoserine is an amino acid derivative involved in the biosynthesis of threonine, methionine, and isoleucine. It is not related to the biosynthesis of reserpine.
Tryptophan and Tryptamine
  • Rationale: Tryptophan is an essential amino acid, and tryptamine is a related compound involved in the biosynthesis of serotonin and other indole alkaloids. However, they are not directly involved in the biosynthesis of reserpine.
Conclusion:
  • Among the given options, asparagine is the correct precursor involved in the biosynthesis of reserpine. Understanding the role of asparagine in this process highlights its importance in the production of this clinically significant compound.
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Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 9:

The crude drug with the Latin name Withania somnifera is.

  1. Brahmi
  2. Hyoscyamus
  3. Aswagandha 
  4. Ipecac

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 3 : Aswagandha 

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 9 Detailed Solution

Correct Answer: Aswagandha
Rationale:
  • Withania somnifera, commonly known as Ashwagandha, is a medicinal herb used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. It is renowned for its adaptogenic properties, which help the body manage stress. Additionally, it is used to enhance energy levels, support immune function, and improve concentration and cognitive function.
  • Ashwagandha contains several bioactive compounds, including withanolides, which are believed to contribute to its medicinal properties. These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and neuroprotective effects.
  • This herb is often used to promote overall well-being and has been the subject of various clinical studies investigating its potential benefits in reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and enhancing physical performance.
Explanation of Other Options:
Brahmi
  • Rationale: Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) is another Ayurvedic herb known for its cognitive-enhancing properties. It is often used to improve memory, reduce anxiety, and treat conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease. However, it is not the same as Withania somnifera.
Hyoscyamus
  • Rationale: Hyoscyamus niger, commonly known as henbane, is a plant that contains toxic alkaloids such as hyoscyamine and scopolamine. It has been used historically for its sedative and antispasmodic properties, but it is not related to Withania somnifera.
Ipecac
  • Rationale: Ipecac (Carapichea ipecacuanha) is a plant known for its emetic properties, meaning it induces vomiting. It has been used in medicine to treat poisoning by inducing vomiting to expel toxins. It is also not related to Withania somnifera.
Conclusion:
  • Among the given options, Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is the correct answer. It is a well-known herb in Ayurvedic medicine with numerous health benefits, particularly for stress management, cognitive function, and overall vitality.
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Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 10:

Jesuit's bark is the synonym of.

  1. Cinnamon
  2. Kurchi
  3. Cmchonan 
  4. Aswagandha

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 3 : Cmchonan 

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 10 Detailed Solution

Correct Answer: Cmchonan (Cinchona)
Rationale:
  • Jesuit's bark, also known as Peruvian bark, refers to the bark of the Cinchona tree. The name comes from its historical use by Jesuit missionaries in the treatment of malaria.
  • Cinchona bark contains quinine, an alkaloid used to treat malaria, making it highly valuable in medicinal applications.
  • The term "Cmchonan" appears to be a typographical error and is intended to refer to Cinchona.
Explanation of Other Options:
Cinnamon
  • Rationale: Cinnamon is a spice obtained from the inner bark of trees from the genus Cinnamomum. It is used mainly in cooking and does not have the historical medicinal significance as Jesuit's bark.
Kurchi
  • Rationale: Kurchi, derived from the plant Holarrhena antidysenterica, is used in traditional medicine for its anti-dysenteric properties. It is not related to Jesuit's bark.
Aswagandha
  • Rationale: Aswagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is an adaptogenic herb used in Ayurvedic medicine to improve overall health and alleviate stress. It is not related to Jesuit's bark.
Conclusion:
  • The correct answer is Cinchona (Cmchonan). Jesuit's bark refers to the bark of the Cinchona tree, known for its usage in treating malaria.

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 11:

Ruthenium red is used to detect.

  1. Gum
  2. Lipids
  3. Wax
  4. Mucilage

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : Gum

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 11 Detailed Solution

Correct Answer: Gum
Rationale:
  • Ruthenium red is a staining agent that is used to detect acidic polysaccharides, including plant gums and mucilage.
  • Gums are a type of plant exudate composed of complex polysaccharides. Ruthenium red binds to these polysaccharides, allowing for the visualization of gum in plant tissues.
  • This is useful in botanical studies for identifying and differentiating gum-containing tissues from other plant structures.
Explanation of Other Options:
Lipids
  • Rationale: Lipids are typically detected using stains like Sudan III or Oil Red O, which specifically bind to lipid molecules. Ruthenium red is not used for this purpose.
Wax
  • Rationale: Wax detection typically involves staining methods such as Sudan black, which targets lipophilic substances. Ruthenium red is not suitable for detecting wax.
Mucilage
  • Rationale: Although Ruthenium red can detect mucilage, the question specifies gum as the correct answer in this context. Both gum and mucilage are polysaccharides, but gum is the specific focus here.
Conclusion:
  • The correct answer is Gum. Ruthenium red is used to detect acidic polysaccharides found in plant gums.

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 12:

Digitalis is mainly used is.

  1. Cardiotonic 
  2. Analgesic
  3. CNS stimulant
  4. Purgative

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : Cardiotonic 

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 12 Detailed Solution

Correct Answer: Cardiotonic
Rationale:
  • Digitalis is primarily used as a cardiotonic agent. It is derived from the foxglove plant and contains cardiac glycosides, which are compounds that have a powerful effect on the heart.
  • The main action of digitalis is to increase the force of myocardial contraction, which improves cardiac output. This makes it particularly useful in the treatment of heart conditions such as heart failure and atrial fibrillation.
  • Digitalis works by inhibiting the sodium-potassium ATPase pump, leading to an increase in intracellular calcium concentration. This increase in calcium enhances the force of heart muscle contraction.
Explanation of Other Options:
Analgesic
  • Rationale: Analgesics are medications used to relieve pain. They do not have any effect on the heart's function. Common examples include acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
CNS stimulant
  • Rationale: Central Nervous System (CNS) stimulants are drugs that increase brain activity. They are used to treat conditions like ADHD and narcolepsy. Examples include amphetamines and caffeine.
Purgative
  • Rationale: Purgatives, also known as laxatives, are substances used to relieve constipation by inducing bowel movements. They do not have any effect on heart function. Examples include magnesium citrate and bisacodyl.
Conclusion:
  • Among the given options, digitalis is specifically used as a cardiotonic agent. It plays a crucial role in the management of heart-related conditions by improving the efficiency of the heart's contractions.
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Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 13:

Dried latex of the drug is used except _____.

  1. Opium
  2. Gutta-percha
  3. Papain
  4. Balsam

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 4 : Balsam

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 13 Detailed Solution

Correct Answer: Balsam
Rationale:
  • The term "dried latex" refers to the coagulated sap obtained from various plants. It is often used in traditional medicines and various industrial applications.
  • Balsam is an aromatic resinous substance that exudes from certain trees and shrubs. It is not a dried latex but rather a natural resin, which is a liquid or semi-liquid substance. Balsams are used in perfumes, medicines, and as a base for certain types of varnishes.
Explanation of Other Options:
Opium
  • Rationale: Opium is the dried latex obtained from the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum). It contains alkaloids such as morphine and codeine, which are used for their analgesic properties. The latex is extracted by making incisions in the unripe seed pods of the poppy plant.
Gutta-percha
  • Rationale: Gutta-percha is the coagulated latex obtained from the trees of the genus Palaquium. It is a form of natural rubber used in various applications, including dental procedures and as an insulating material for underwater cables.
Papain
  • Rationale: Papain is an enzyme extracted from the latex of the papaya fruit (Carica papaya). It is used in various industries, including food processing, medicine, and cosmetics. The latex is collected by making incisions in the green fruit or the bark of the papaya tree.
Conclusion:
  • Among the given options, Balsam is not derived from dried latex but is instead a natural resin. The other options, Opium, Gutta-percha, and Papain, are indeed derived from the dried latex of their respective plants.

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 14:

Topically applied silicone oils are ______.

  1. Natural oils
  2. Semi synthetic oil
  3. Polymers
  4. Shark liver oil

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 3 : Polymers

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 14 Detailed Solution

Correct Answer: Polymers
Rationale:
  • Silicone oils are a type of polymer known as polysiloxanes. They consist of repeating units of siloxane (a chain of alternating silicon and oxygen atoms) and are widely used in various topical applications.
  • These polymers are known for their unique properties, such as being hydrophobic, chemically inert, and having a low surface tension, which makes them suitable for use in skin care products, medical devices, and lubricants.
Explanation of Other Options:
Natural oils
  • Rationale: Natural oils are derived from plants or animals, such as olive oil, coconut oil, or almond oil. They are composed of triglycerides and do not have the same chemical structure or properties as silicone oils.
Semi-synthetic oil
  • Rationale: Semi-synthetic oils are a blend of natural oils and synthetic additives. While they are engineered to enhance certain properties, they are not the same as silicone oils, which are fully synthetic polymers.
Shark liver oil
  • Rationale: Shark liver oil is a natural oil obtained from the liver of sharks. It contains compounds like alkylglycerols and squalene, which are different in composition and function compared to silicone oils.
Conclusion:
  • Among the given options, silicone oils are classified as polymers. Their unique chemical structure and properties make them distinct from natural oils, semi-synthetic oils, and shark liver oil. They are extensively used in various topical applications due to their beneficial characteristics.

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 15:

Curemninoids are present in.

  1. Squill
  2. Turmeric
  3. Honey
  4. Acacia

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 2 : Turmeric

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Question 15 Detailed Solution

Correct Answer: Turmeric
Rationale:
  • Curcuminoids are a group of compounds that are the primary active ingredients in turmeric. These compounds include curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin, which are responsible for the characteristic yellow color of turmeric and have various health benefits.
  • Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a root that belongs to the ginger family and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The curcuminoids in turmeric have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
  • Curcumin, the most studied curcuminoid, has been shown to have potential therapeutic effects in conditions such as arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, and even cancer.
Explanation of Other Options:
Squill
  • Rationale: Squill (Drimia maritima) is a plant known for its cardiac glycosides, particularly used in traditional medicine for treating heart conditions. It does not contain curcuminoids.
Honey
  • Rationale: Honey is a natural sweetener produced by bees from the nectar of flowers. It contains sugars, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, but it does not contain curcuminoids.
Acacia
  • Rationale: Acacia refers to a genus of shrubs and trees known for producing gum arabic, a natural gum used as a food stabilizer. Acacia does not contain curcuminoids.
Conclusion:
  • Among the given options, turmeric is the correct answer as it contains curcuminoids. These compounds are well-known for their health benefits and are the primary active ingredients in turmeric, responsible for its therapeutic properties.
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