ABSTRACT
Chemotaxonomic studies begin with the collection of plant samples and extraction of their phytoconstituents before they can be characterized and analyzed. Techniques may vary depending on the nature and the physical characteristics of the phytochemicals to be studied. Common extraction techniques include maceration, infusion, percolation, and hot continuous extraction (Soxhlet) and sometimes a combination of two or more techniques is desired for optimum result. Modern techniques employed in advanced chemotaxonomic studies for the isolation and characterization of the phytochemicals include electrophoresis, thin-layer chromatography, column chromatography, gas chromatography, high-performance liquid chromatography, spectroscopy (nuclear magnetic resonance, etc.), Fourier-transform infrared among others. These techniques have been successfully applied in the delimitation of taxa both at the lower and higher levels of taxonomic hierarchy and even though some challenges and limitations exist, when harnessed, chemotaxonomy will remain the bedrock of phytochemical studies and drug discovery.
