Comparative Study to Assess Chemo-Profile variation of Maricha (piper nigrum Linn) between Non-Grafted and Grafted Variety Sample by RP-UPLC Method

In Ayurveda, therapeutic success depends on four essential factors, among which Dravya (medicine) holds prime importance after the physician. Traditionally, medicinal plants were collected directly by Vaidyas; however, current practices largely depend on market-sourced raw materials. Maricha (Piper nigrum Linn.) is an extensively used drug in Ayurvedic formulations, and due to increasing demand, modern cultivation techniques such as grafting are being adopted over conventional methods. Grafting is known to enhance yield, improve disease resistance, and reduce harvesting time. The present study aims to compare the pharmacognostic, physicochemical, phytochemical, and chemical profiles of non-grafted and grafted Maricha. Fresh seeds of Piper nigrum cultivated through non-grafted and grafted methods were collected and shade-dried following Good Cultivation Practices (GCP). Both samples were evaluated through pharmacognostic, physicochemical, and phytochemical analyses, along with chromatographic profiling using the RP-UPLC method. The results revealed that grafted plants exhibited superior morphological characteristics, including thicker stems, larger leaves, and bigger fruits. Phytochemical screening showed the presence of similar constituents such as saponins, tannins, alkaloids, volatile oils, and starch in both samples, while physicochemical parameters remained within standard limits. RP-UPLC analysis indicated a higher piperine content in grafted Maricha (4.57%) compared to non-grafted samples (3.57%). The study concludes that grafting positively influences the morphological and chemical attributes of Maricha, supporting its use for improved quality and efficacy of Ayurvedic formulations and emphasizing the need for further research on genetic and environmental influences.