摘要Background:Vitamin D deficiency is a global health concern,and exploring natural sources,particularly traditional medicinal plants,may offer a novel approach to addressing this widespread issue.This study investigates the prevalence of vitamin D2 and D3 in indigenous medicinal plants,such as Solanum torvum,Solanum nigrum,Solanum xanthocarpum,Psoralea cordifolia,Cissus quadrangularis,and the resin Commiphora mukul,and Laccifer lacca.Methods:Vitamin D2 and D3 compounds were detected and quantified using advanced reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography.A refined technique for sample preparation was employed,which involved an overnight cold saponification process.This method was used to enhance the extraction of vitamin D molecules.The accuracy and reliability of the HPLC method were validated using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry(LC-MS)/MS analysis.Results:The investigation revealed the remarkable presence of vitamin D2 and D3 in the chosen plant specimens.Significant amounts of vitamin D2 were found in Laccifer lacca and Psoralea cordifolia,however,vitamin D3 was only detected in Cissus quadrangularis and Solanum xanthocarpum.The revised approaches exhibited significant precision and accuracy,hence enhancing the reliability of the findings.Conclusion:The identification of vitamin D2 and D3 in these plants underscores their historical therapeutic significance for supporting bone health and indicates their potential as beneficial natural sources of vitamin D.This research advances understanding of the phytochemical features of these plants,facilitating future development of nutraceuticals and therapeutic applications.