Phytochemical Analysis of Gymnema Sylvestre

Gymnema sylvestre R.Br. is an important medicinal plant belongs to the family Asclepiadaceae is a perennial woody climber. The word "Gymnema" is derived from a Hindu word "Gurmar" meaning "destroyer of sugar" and it is believed that it might neutralize the excess of sugar present in the body in Diabetes mellitus (Keshavamurthy and Yoganarasimhan1990). An herb from India has enabled diabetics to lower or stop taking insulin. India is bulk exporter of Gymnema extract and Gymnema leaf powder. The medicinal activities of Gymnema are attributed to a group of oleanane type triterpenoidsaponins known as Gymnemic acids and dammarenesaponins called gymnemaside. The medicinal activities of Gymnema are attributed to a group of oleanane type triterpenoidsaponins known as Gymnemic acids and dammarenesaponins called gymnemaside. Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers have proved to be a very useful tool to provide a convenient and rapid assessment of the genetic differen between genotypes. The analysis of population variation based on genetic and chemical markers is necessary for effective and efficient conservation practices and utilization of plant resources.