A distinct new microscopic feature for identification of the crude drug of Radix Angelicae Pubescentis

Abstract

Objective: In order for effective authentication of Radix Angelicae Pubescentis and to establish a basis of the herb standardization,the detailed morphological and microscopic characteristics were investigated.Methods: Samples were collected from the representative producing areas of China;the conventional pharmacognostic techniques were adopted for trait description and microscopic identification,which were finally compared with those reported.Results: A distinct and previously neglected new feature for the identification of the powdered crude drug,which was the spindle-shaped parenchymatous cells with crisscross striation,was identified and shown as an important microscopic characteristic for herb authentication.In addition,other microscopic features were also described in details and their similarities and differences with those reported were discussed.Conclusion: These results would be the important scientific basis for further consideration in the herb authentication of Radix Angelicae Pubescentis.