Criteria for Identifying Akebiae, Clematidis, Aristolochiae Caulis

Abstract

Objectives : Due to morphological similarity, many substitutes and counterfeits have been used as Moktong for thousands of years. This study was designed to determine discriminative criteria for identifying medicinal herbs used as Moktong. Methods : Akebia quinata, A. trifoliata, Clematis armandii, and Aristolochia manshuriensis were collected in various regions. Samples were authenticated and examined by observation and microscopy with paraffin embedding and triple staining using the modified Ju staining method. Results : Three different types of features to establish discriminative criteria for four kinds of Moktong were identified. Botanical features include differences in phyllotaxy, leaf shape, and caulescent. External morphological features were arrangement and size of fine holes(xylem), and overall shape of the section. Internal morphological features include the number of medullary rays, shape of the pitch, type of tissues rounding pitch, appearance of annual rings, shape and amount of crystals(calcium-oxalate), and the appearance of cork cambium. Further details(e.g. identification keys) are in the article. Conclusions : These criteria could provide an effective method for identifying numerous kinds of Moktong distributed in markets throughout northeast Asian nations.