Pharmacognostic Identification of Adulterated Marketed Samples of Maranta arundinacea L. Starch: A Case Study

Introduction: Maranta arundinacea L. (arrowroot) starch is readily available in the market owing to its soaring demand in the pharma and food industry. Despite its cost in extraction methods and minimal yield, it is marketed at cheaper rates. The unclear picture of its authenticity, quality and the high chances of adulteration are still unexplored. This case study is planned to identify and authenticate genuine and adulterated samples of Maranta Starch (MS) procured from various vendors in comparison with a Botanical Reference Standard (BRS) and In-House preparation (IH). Materials and Methods: The BRS, IH and nine commercial samples (labeled as MS 1 to 9) were subjected to a systematic approach of powder microscopy, preliminary physiochemical assays and X-ray Diffraction (XRD). Results: On gross examination, the texture, color, odor and taste of samples showed minute differences, however, the powder microscopy and iodine test demonstrated significant differences. The samples which reported more deviation were tested and confirmed for the presence of inorganic matter through an ash test. This was further studied for XRD analysis, which reported major adulterants in the samples like dolomite (CaMg (CO3)2), cordierite (Al4Mg2Si5O18), quartz (SiO2) and Zinc Sulphide (ZnS). Conclusion: This case study reveals the extensive adulteration of marketed MS in the South Indian market, particularly Chennai.