Pharmacognostical and Phyto-physicochemical profile of the leaves of Piper betle L. var Pachaikodi (Piperaceae) — Valuable assessment of its quality

Abstract

ObjectiveTo study in detail the micromorphology and physicochemical analysis of the leaves of Piper betle L. var Pachaikodi family Piperaceae. MethodsMacroscopy, microscopy, physicochemical analysis, preliminary phytochemical screening and other WHO recommended parameters for standardizations were performed. ResultsLeaves are cordate, alternate 12–18cm long and 9–11 cm broad. Aromatic, dark green with entire margin, acuminate apex and unequal base with stout petiole (5–6.5cm). Microscopic evaluation revealed the presence of cyclocytic stomata in lower epidermis and apostomatic upper epidermis, hypodermis, secretory cells, pearl glandular trichomes, xylem vessels, phloem, fibres. Vein islet numbers, vein termination numbers, stomatal number, stomatal index and other physico chemical tests like ash values, loss on drying, extractive values were determined. Preliminary phytochemical screening showed the presence of steroids, tannins, proteins and aminoacids, flavonoids, terpenoids, mucilage, volatile oil, saponin, carbohydrates and absence of alkaloids, fixed oil. ConclusionsThe microscopic using histological identification, microscopic constants and other physico chemical examinations of the leaves of Piper betle L. var pachaikodi can be used as a rapid, inexpensive botanical identification technique and is useful in standardization, hence would be of immense value in authentication of the leaf.