Cytomorphological, Palynological and Phytochemical study of two species of Genus Bacopa (Scrophulariaceae) from the state of Punjab, India

Abstract

Two species of the genus Bacopa (B. monnieri and B. procumbens) were studied for examination of cytomorphological and palynological characteristics as well as the screening of phytochemical from the Malwa region of Punjab during the years 2019, 2020 and 2021. Primarily both species are differentiated based on morphological features then identity was authenticated by examination of chromosome number. There is a great difference in chromosome number between the two species (B. monnieri, 2n=64; B. procumbens, 2n=22). Pollen size of B. monnieri is larger (22.5 × 21.25 μm to 27.5 ×25 μm) with less viability (77.87%) whereas in case of B. procumbens pollen size is small (15 × 13.75 μm to 17.5 × 16.25 μm) with high viability (88.75%). The phytochemicals of both species are almost similar with minor variations. This study will be helpful for scientists in the identification of these important medicinal plant species. The phytochemical profile throws light on medicinally important compounds which will be utilized by pharmaceutical departments for the development of appropriate drugs.