PHARMACOGNOSTICAL STUDIES OF LEAVES OF ACACIA ETBAICA SUBSPECIES UNCINATA

Abstract

bjective: The objective of the study is to analyze the microscopic, macroscopic, and physicochemical standards of the leaves of the Acacia etbaica subspecies uncinata. Methods: Pharamacognostic studies (macroscopic, microscopic, and powder microscopy) were carried out. Physicochemical standards (ash values, extractives values, and moisture content by loss on drying) were determined. Fluorescence analysis of powdered drug was also performed. Results: The macroscopic study showed that the leaves were bipinnate with 3–11 pairs of pinnae, each containing 7–25 pairs of leaflets. The leaflet was linear with parallel margins and a rounded at the apex, color was dark green, odor was characteristic and the taste was astringent. The characteristic microscopy of leaves showed the presence of polygonal and rectangular epidermal cells in the center of the lamina and rectangular at the edges, paracytic stomata, non-glandular trichomes, and reticulate venations. The microscopic study of petiole, rachis, and rachilla revealed the presence of elongate, swollen conical-shaped, flagelliform, and wavy trichomes. The powder microscopy also revealed paracytic stomata, trichomes with pedestals, and annular vessels. Physiochemical analysis of dried leaf powder showed total ash, acid insoluble ash, water-soluble ash, water extractive value, ethanol extractive value, and moisture content as 6.11%, 2.50%, 4.57%, 32.50%, 14.10%, and 7.26% w/w respectively. The fluorescence analysis of leaf powder was established. Conclusion: Various pharmacognostic, physicochemical, and fluorescence parameters observed in this study will help in the identification and standardization of the leaves of A. etbaica subspecies uncinata.