Abstract

Introduction: Fenugreek- the seeds of Trigonella foenum-graecum- are known for their medicinal value since the very early-recorded human history. This study is conducted to explore the effect of environmental conditions on the trigonelline content of the plant seeds.

Methods: Trigonelline contents in different samples of fenugreek were estimated by HPTLC. The established method was proved to be accurate, precise and robust according to ICH guidelines. The used mobile phase was a mixture of ethyl acetate: methanol: water: formic acid 7.5: 2.5: 3: 1 (%, v/v/v/v) on 20 × 10 cm glass coated silica gel 60 F254 plates. The plates were scanned and quantified densitometrically at λ = 267 nm after development.

Results: A valid linear relationship correlating peak area and amount of trigonelline in the range of 100- 700 ng/spot was obtained. The amount of trigonelline varied according to the country of origin.

Conclusion: The Indian sample has the highest amount of trigonelline followed by the Moroccan sample. The two locations represent areas with moderate temperature, low altitude and rainy winter.

Keywords: Trigonella foenum-graecum, trigonelline, HPTLC, quantitative, environmental, fenugreek seeds.