Phytochemical analysis and evaluation of antioxidant potential of ethanol extract of Allium cepa and ultra‑high homoeopathic dilutions available in the market: A comparative study

Abstract

Introduction: As per statistics available with the WHO, 80% of the earth’s population rely on traditional medicine for their primary health‑care needs and most of this therapy involves the use of plant extracts and their active components. Objectives: To confirm the presence of alkaloids, fats, steroids, tannins, flavonoids, sugars, amino acids and saponins in Allium cepa extract. Method: A qualitative phytochemical analysis has been performed to confirm the presence of these components in Allium cepa extract and its homoeopathic formulations (mother tincture [MT], Allium cepa 30C and Allium cepa 200C). The total phenolic content, flavonoid content and antioxidant potential of the prepared extract and the various homoeopathic formulations have also been studied. Results: Presence of various phytochemicals such as flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, steroids, carbohydrates and amino acids have been confirmed in the prepared extract as well as the MT. According to calculations using Avogadro’s limit, preparations above 12C dilution should have no source material present. It is interesting to note that even though the formulations Allium cepa 30C and 200C are considered ultra‑high dilutions, they gave a positive result for many phytochemicals. The total phenolic content, flavonoid content and antioxidant potential of the prepared extract and various homoeopathic formulations have also been studied. Conclusion: The positive qualitative and quantitative results also reinforce the growing belief that Homoeopathy is not just a placebo effect but a ‘Smart medicine’ which may be working on the nanoscale. More research is required to understand various aspects.