The anatomical and micromorphological structure of Myrtus communis L. leaves

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Myrtus communis L. is a promising medicinal plant that has garnered the attention of scientists to introduce it into industrial cultivation as a raw material source for obtaining new phytopreparations. In its chemical composition, Myrtus communis L. contains many biologically active substances, which confer upon it a range of medicinal properties including astringent, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, antidiabetic, antiulcer, antimutagenic, gastro- and hepatoprotective properties. Published information primarily focuses on the chemical composition and pharmacological activity of common myrtle, with limited data available on its micromorphology. The aim of the work is to study the morphological and anatomical structure and to determine the general diagnostic microscopic features of common myrtle leaves. Materials and methods. The object of the research was fresh and dried plant material of common myrtle grown under room conditions. Transverse sections were fixed with Carnois fixative, dehydrated, and paraffinized. The sections were then cut using a Microm HM 325 microtome, followed by deparaffinization. Microscopic analysis of the leaf was performed using temporary preparations on a Carl Zeiss microscope, including the “AxioStar Plus” and “Primo Star”, equipped with a photo attachment for direct and reflected light microscopy. Results. The external features of common myrtle leaves include their shape, color, size, smell, and type of veining. Anatomically, the leaves exhibit a cuticle, dorsiventral mesophyll, and anomocytic stomata located on the abaxial surface. Additionally, they contain calcium oxalate crystals and druses, as well as simple hairs on the midvein and schizolisogenic secretory receptacles. Histochemical studies of these cavities indicate the presence of lipophilic substances. Conclusions. The morphological and anatomical analysis of Myrtus communis L., a representative of the myrtle genus, allowed for the identification of key diagnostic microscopic features of myrtle leaves. Further research prospects involve conducting a comprehensive set of phytochemical studies to establish standardization parameters for medicinal plant raw materials.