Comparative Analysis of Botanical, Physicochemical, and Phytochemical Parameters of Zanthoxylum zanthoxyloides from Stem and Root Bark

Abstract

This study presents a comparative analysis of the botanical, physicochemical, and phytochemical properties of Zanthoxylum zanthoxyloides stem and root bark powders. The research underlines the possibility of their interchangeability in phytomedicine to promote sustainable resource utilization. Botanical characteristics, physicochemical parameters such as ash and moisture content, and phytochemical profiles were evaluated using methanolic and aqueous extracts. The similarities in botanical characteristics, physicochemical properties, and phytochemical profiles support the possibility of substitutability in traditional medicine. However, significant differences between the antioxidant activities of methanolic extracts from the stem bark and root bark suggest that methods of extraction significantly impact therapeutic optimization. The data obtained contribute to the standardization of phytomedicines based on Z. zanthoxyloides, supporting resource conservation and sustainable harvesting.