Author(s):

Reena Terangpi, Ratan Basumatary, A K Tamuli, R Teron

Abstract: Bark of Acacia pennata is used in preparation of starter cakes among the Dimasa community of Assam state. The present study attempts to evaluate the pharmacognostical and physicochemical parameters of Acacia pennata (L.) Willd. The transverse section of the stem revealed an epidermis externally subtended by trichomes, a crashed cortical region due to massive secondary growth and large stellate pith. The physico-chemical parameters were evaluated- loss on drying (7%), total ash content (9.3%), Sulphated value of ash (2.5%), extractive value of bark powder with petroleum ether, ethanol, water and methanol (2.5%, 15%, 9% and 10% respectively). The Hausner ratio and Carr’s indexes (1.43 and 30% respectively) indicate a poor flow. The bark powder is more soluble in alcohol (15%) and least soluble in petroleum ether (2.5%). Further studies on grain character of bark powder will reveal the feasibility for microbial substrate and evaluation of microflora in starter cakes is necessary to assess toxicity and quality of the finished products..

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