Pharmacognostical studies on the Rhizome of Sansevieria roxburghiana Schult. and Schult. f. - a botanical source for Murva - an Ayurveda drug

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the present study was to carry out a detailed pharmacognostical investigation on the rhizome of S. roxburghiana which includes exomorphological, macro-, microscopical characters, macerate, powder, phytochemical analysis and HPTLC studies. Methods: Rhizomes of S. roxburghiana were collected from Kadavur village, Karur district, Tamil Nadu, India, shade dried and powdered. A few fresh pieces of rhizome were preserved in 70% alcohol to carry out pharmacognostical studies. Dried rhizomes were powdered; successive solvent extraction was carried out to perform preliminary phytochemical analysis. HPTLC studies were carried out on ethanol, aqueous extracts and volatile oil. Results: The plant is identified by deep concave-channelled linear leaves with a number of dark transverse bands, flowers in long racemes and pedicels jointed in the middle. Rhizomes are identified by the presence of distinct nodes and internodes, cylindrical shape, ground tissue with three distinct zones; presence of oil globules in the cells of outer zone; presence of raphide bundles and mucilage content in the inner zone. Vascular bundles are found scattered in the inner zone of ground tissue. Rhizome contains carbohydrates, saponins, proteins, alkaloids, fats and phytosterols. The percentage yield of volatile oil was 0.2 % v/w by hydro-distillation. Rf values obtained in HPTLC studies will be helpful in identifying and isolating the phytoconstituents. Conclusion: The pharmacognostical investigation on the rhizome of S. roxburghiana helps in identifying the botanical source of the ayurveda drug Murva, establishing the pharmacopoeial parameters and for undertaking further studies to determine the biomarker compounds.