Paracytic Stomata Research Articles

Pharmacognostic, antimicrobial and mosquito repellent properties of Acalypha fimbriata (Euphorbiaceae) leaf extract

The pharmacognostic, phytochemical, antimicrobial and mosquito repellent properties of the leaf extract of Acalypha fimbriata (Euphorbiaceae) are reported. The pharmacognostic study revealed the transverse section of the leaf has a dorsiventral nature and diagnostic features such as paracytic stomata, multicellular, uniseriate covering trichomes, calcium oxalates of crystal type and starch grains of oval shape. Physicochemical analysis and quantitative leaf microscopy gave distinctive values of interest. The phytochemical screening of the crude extracts and fractions revealed the presence of alkaloids, steroids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, glycosides, reducing sugars and phenols. The quantitative estimation of the secondary metabolites of the methanolic extract showed the highest level to be tannins (299.96 ± 0.00 mg/g) compared with phenols (209.963 ± 0.00 mg/g) and flavonoids (162.97 ± 0.00 mg/g). GC-MS analysis identified trans-4-tetradecene (35.18%) as the major constituent. The crude extract and fractions showed a significant broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity. The repellency study of the leaf oil of Acalypha fimbriata against Aedes aegypti mosquitoes showed significant differences in repellency (p < 0.05). This study confirms that the leaves of Acalypha fimbriata contain potential antimicrobial phytochemicals and oil for mosquito repellent.

Leaf surface development and the plant fossil record: stomatal patterning in Bennettitales.

Stomata play a critical ecological role as an interface between the plant and its environment. Although the guard-cell pair is highly conserved in land plants, the development and patterning of surrounding epidermal cells follow predictable pathways in different taxa that are increasingly well understood following recent advances in the developmental genetics of the plant epidermis in model taxa. Similarly, other aspects of leaf development and evolution are benefiting from a molecular-genetic approach. Applying this understanding to extinct taxa known only from fossils requires use of extensive comparative morphological data to infer 'fossil fingerprints' of developmental evolution (a 'palaeo-evo-devo' perspective). The seed-plant order Bennettitales, which flourished through the Mesozoic but became extinct in the Late Cretaceous, displayed a consistent and highly unusual combination of epidermal traits, despite their diverse leaf morphology. Based on morphological evidence (including possession of flower-like structures), bennettites are widely inferred to be closely related to angiosperms and hence inform our understanding of early angiosperm evolution. Fossil bennettites-even purely vegetative material-can be readily identified by a combination of epidermal features, including distinctive cuticular guard-cell thickenings, lobed abaxial epidermal cells ('puzzle cells'), transverse orientation of stomata perpendicular to the leaf axis, and a pair of lateral subsidiary cells adjacent to each guard-cell pair (termed paracytic stomata). Here, we review these traits and compare them with analogous features in living taxa, aiming to identify homologous-and hence phylogenetically informative-character states and to increase understanding of developmental mechanisms in land plants. We propose a range of models addressing different aspects of the bennettite epidermis. The lobed abaxial epidermal cells indicate adaxial-abaxial leaf polarity and associated differentiated mesophyll that could have optimised photosynthesis. The typical transverse orientation of the stomata probably resulted from leaf expansion similar to that of a broad-leaved monocot such as Lapageria, but radically different from that of broad-leafed eudicots such as Arabidopsis. Finally, the developmental origin of the paired lateral subsidiary cells-whether they are mesogene cells derived from the same cell lineage as the guard-mother cell, as in some eudicots, or perigene cells derived from an adjacent cell lineage, as in grasses-represents an unusually lineage-specific and well-characterised developmental trait. We identify a close similarity between the paracytic stomata of Bennettitales and the 'living fossil' Gnetum, strongly indicating that (as in Gnetum) the pair of lateral subsidiary cells of bennettites are both mesogene cells. Together, these features allow us to infer development in this diverse and relatively derived lineage that co-existed with the earliest recognisable angiosperms, and suggest that the use of these characters in phylogeny reconstruction requires revision.

Leaf micromorphology of the Persicaria sect. Cephalophilon (Polygonaceae) and its systematic re-evaluation

A comparative study of the leaf microstructures of 19 taxa belonging to the Persicaria sect. Cephalophilon and related four Koenigia taxa was performed by LM and SEM to evaluate their systematic significance. Both amphistomatic and hypostomatic leaves were observed in the taxa studied. The stomatal size ranged from 17.04–41.96 × 13.41–37.30 μm, and stomata on the adaxial side were larger than those on the abaxial side in general. Anomocytic stomata occurred most commonly, but more than one type of stomata was observed on the same surface. Paracytic stomata was found in both Persicaria palmata and P. criopolitana. The epidermal cells usually have straight to sinuate anticlinal cell walls (ACW), and the ACW on the abaxial side of most taxa is much more undulated than that on the adaxial side. Cuticular striation was observed in most of the studied taxa, which was restricted to only the adaxial side. Two types of crystals were observed: druse and prismatic, and seven types of trichome were recognized: five types of non-glandular trichomes (stellate with smooth surface, multiseriate with either smooth or striated surface, and uniseriate with either smooth or papillose surface), and two types of glandular trichomes (peltate and long-stalked pilate). The leaf micromorphology in this study was categorized into five types based on the stomata, epidermis, crystal and trichome, as further systematic significance of the leaf epidermal characters within the P. sect. Cephalophilon are discussed. In addition, we propose a new taxonomic combination in the P. sect. Cephalophilon.

Microscopic Characters, Phytochemical Screening Focus on Alkaloid and Total Phenolic Content of Uncaria gambir Roxb. and Uncaria sclerophylla Roxb. Leaves

Objective: Uncaria gambir Roxb. and Uncaria sclerophylla Roxb. are medicinal plants widely grown in Indonesia. Genus Uncaria is well known for catechin content that has potent antioxidant activity. Uncaria also was reported containing alkaloid that has antihypertensive action. This study aims to provide microscopic characters and phytochemical profiles associated with the phenolic and alkaloid compounds contained in these two species of Uncaria. Methods: Microscopic characteristics were performed on fresh leaf samples using a microscope. Presence of alkaloids from ethanol and chloroform extract of U. gambir and U. sclerophylla leaf were performed using Dragendorff reagents. Thin Layer Chromatography profile was developed in the mobile phase that consisted of acetone: chloroform (8:2). Total Phenolic Content was determined according to the Folin-Ciocalteu method using microplate reader spectroscopically at λ = 765 nm. Results: Microscopy of U. gambir leaf revealed the presence of vascular bundle fragment, oil fragments, parenchyma cells, midrib transverse-section and lower epidermis with paracytic stomata. Whereas in U. sclerophylla can be observed midrib transverse-section and lower epidermis unicellular with trichomes. Both U. gambir and U. sclerophylla positively contain alkaloids. Chloroform extract showed the presence of alkaloids while ethanolic extracts showed negative results. The TLC profile shows the presence of catechin compound in the ethanolic extract, whereas in the chloroform extract does not show the presence of catechin. The total phenolic content of U. gambir and U. sclerophylla leaf ethanolic extract and chloroform extract was 7.309; 5.734 and 0.437; 0.161 mg of gallic acid equivalents each gram sample, respectively. Conclusion: Microscopic characteristics, TLC and phytochemicals obtained can be used for the authentication of Uncaria gambir Roxb. and Uncaria sclerophylla Roxb leaf.

Use of Frozen Leaves for Morpho-anatomical Characterization of Nectandra megapotamica (Spreng.) Mez., Lauraceae

Nectandra megapotamica (Spreng.) Mez. it is a native tree species of the Atlantic Forest, commonly known as canela-preta. The species has some anti-inflammatory, antitumor and antirheumatic properties among others. In this work the use of frozen plant material for microscopy analysis was tested. In addition, the leaf morpho-anatomy of the species was characterized which allowed to perform a structural description and to identify structures of secretion and storage of essential oil. The plant material was prepared for analyzes in optical, fluorescence and scanning electron microscopy. The leaf anatomy shows glabrous epidermis, unistratified, paracytic stomata, absence of trichomes, polyhedral epidermal cells. Some typical family characteristics were observed as a closed arc-shaped bicollateral bundle vascular system and dorsiventral mesophyll. The structures of secretion and storage of essential oil were identified as secretory cavities.

Cellular Antioxidant Activity and Peroxidase Inhibition of Infusions from Different Aerial Parts of &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Cassia occidentalis&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;

Cassia occidentalis L. is widely used in the world in traditional medicine and especially in some African countries for the treatment of various diseases. The aim of this study was to report the microscopic features, the chromatographic fingerprints and the cellular antioxidant activity and the peroxidase inhibition of infusions from different parts of this plant. Microscopically, leaf can be characterized by cells of the spongy mesophyll and parenchyma numerous cluster crystals of calcium oxalate, paracytic stomata, isolated calcium oxalate cluster crystals, covering and glandular trichomes, scalariform vessels, polyedric starch granules, lignified fibers; flowers by abundant covering and glandular trichomes, spirally thickened vessels and associated parenchyma, abundant pollen grains. Seeds were characterized by pluricellular non-glandular trichomes, epidermis of the testa with underlying oil cells, parenchymatous layers of the testa, thicker-walled cells of the endosperm, pollen grain. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of phenolic acids, flavonoids, iridoids, tannins and terpenes. TLC fingerprints of different parts were different and characteristic. They showed the presence of glycosylated flavonoids and phenolic acids as main phytochemicals for flowers, leaves and seedpods. ABTS and DPPH assays showed that infusion extracts have the ability to scavenge free radicals connected with their IC50 values ranging from 21.43 ± 1.25 to 566.24 ± 176.7 mg·mL-1. All extracts showed a weaker capacity to scavenge DPPH radical. Aqueous extracts displayed high cellular antioxidant activity at the concentrations range of 1 - 20 μg·mL-1 using LO-12 on monocytes HL 60. Flower and leave extracts showed more efficient effects on extracellular ROS production. Phenolic compounds could be major contributors to antioxidant activity of infusions of Cassia parts. In MPO (Myeloperoxidase) direct technique, all infusion extracts exhibited a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on MPO activity in the range concentrations of 1 to 20 μg·mL-1 with the leaves and flowers the most active. Obtained results support the potential therapeutic interest of all aerial parts of Cassia and could justify their use in traditional medicine and local nutraceutical resources.

Pharmacognostic and Elemental Analysis of the Leaves of Tapinanthus globifer (A. Rich). Tiegh

Background and objectivesTapinanthus globifer is a semi-parasite plant that mostly grows on the branches of the host tree species of the genera Vitellaria, Kola, Citrus, Combretum, Acacia, and Terminalia. The leaf is known for its use in traditional medicine to treat inflammations, malaria, headaches, bacterial infections, ulcers and diabetes mellitus. The current study was aimed to establish standards on purity, identity and quality control of T. globifer.MethodsThe pharmacognostic standardization of the leaf was assessed to determine the macroscopic/organoleptic features, microscopical and chemo-microscopical analysis as well as physico-chemical parameters, fluorescence analysis and elemental content.ResultsThe leaf was found to be simple, petiolated 10.0 cm long and 4.4 cm wide. Microscopically, the leaf had irregularly shaped epidermal cells with numerous paracytic stomata on the lower surface. It was devoid of trichomes of any kind; however, it possessed clusters of calcium oxalate crystals. The vascular bundles were of concentric type with fitted xylem vessels. Fluorescence analysis of the powdered leaf revealed the presence of yellow colorations under long wavelength. Elemental analysis showed the presence of magnesium, sodium, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, manganese, iron, nitrogen, sulphur, calcium and copper. Physico-chemical parameters (%w/w) such as moisture content (5.53), total ash content (8.40), water soluble ash content (2.10), acid insoluble ash content (1.20), ethanol extractives (25.60) and water soluble extractives (32.4) were also determined.ConclusionIt is hoped that these findings will be useful towards establishing standards on identity, purity, quality and preparation of monogragh of the drug obtained from the leaves of T. globifer.

Comparative vegetative anatomy and mycorrhizal morphology of three South Indian Luisia species (Orchidaceae) with the note on their epiphytic adaptations

The anatomical characteristics of the vegetative structures and mycorrhizal morphology of Luisia pulniana Vatsala, Luisia tenuifolia Blume and Luisia tristis Hook.f. belonging to the subfamily Epidendroideae (Orchidaceae) were investigated. Luisia species have amphistomatic leaves covered by a thick cuticle, paracytic stomata, and homogenous mesophyll containing raphides, silica bodies, water-storage cells and collateral vascular bundles. The leaf sheath has an upper epidermis of conical papillate shaped cells, homogenous mesophyll, water storage cells, raphides and sclerenchymatous fibers. The process of stem thickening through cortical proliferation was observed for the first time in Luisia species. The uniseriate epidermis is dimorphic in L. pulniana stem. The stem cortex is parenchymatous comprising of fibrous idioblasts. The ground tissue is parenchymatous (L. pulniana) or sclerenchymatous (L. tenuifolia, L. tristis) containing scattered collateral vascular bundles. Xylem and phloem capped by sclerenchymatous patches. The root hairs are restricted to root regions attached to the substratum. Velamen 2–4 layered, exodermal cells with greatly thickened outer tangential walls, cover cells present. Endodermis O-thickened, vascular cylinders 15–23 arched. Mycorrhizal fungi entered roots through the root hairs and formed pelotons in the root cortex. The anatomical characteristics varied significantly among the Luisia species. Some of these anatomical features relate Luisia with epiphytic and xerophytic habitats.

Pharmacognostic characterization and development of standardization parameters for the quality control of Entada africana Guill. & Perr

This study focused on establishing standard parameters for the identification and quality control of an indigenous medicinal plant, Entada africana through macro and micro-morphological, physicochemical and phytochemical evaluation of the leaf and stem bark. Microscopy of the whole leaf revealed wavy and straight walled epidermal cells, hypostomatic paracytic stomata, an arch shaped collaterally closed vascular bundle, collenchyma, sclerenchyma and palisade cells. Prismatic calcium oxalate crystals, stone cells, fibres, pitted and scalariform xylem vessels were also identified in the microscopy of powdered samples. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of glycosides, saponins, tannins, flavonoids, coumarins, triterpenes and sterols. Physiochemical parameters such as the moisture content, ash content, mineral content, solvent soluble extractives and pH of edible extracts were determined. Fluorescence analysis and UV fingerprints were also developed for the methanol extracts. The current results provide necessary information for the correct identification and quality assessment of E. africana crude drug or herbal products containing the plant.

Karakterisasi Morfologi dan Anatomi Tanaman Manggis dan Kerabatnya (Garcinia spp.) di Taman Buah Mekarsari

Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) cultivation has problems in terms of fruit quality and rooting system. This problem is solved by Mekarsari Fruit Garden by developing the technology of double rootstock seedling that is by combining two mangosteen seedling into one plant through the pasting process. Characterization of the collection of mangosteen plants and its species of relatives (Garcinia spp.) is needed to seek superior characters used for the technology of double rootstock seedlings, cultivar development, and management and preservation of mangosteen germplasm. This study aims to record and compare morphological and anatomical characters of mangosteen and its relatives collected in Taman Buah Mekarsari. The study was carried out by collecting the sample and characterizing the morphological structure using mangosteen descriptor, observing the leaf paradermal anatomy, and collecting secondary data. Observation on the morphological characteristics of mangostana (G. mangostana) and its relatives (G. celebica, G. dulcis, G. forbesii, and G. malaccensis) showed variations on the fruit characters, such as the shape is spherical, ovate or spherical flattened apex and base; the rind color is bright yellow, deep red, and bright red; the flavor is sour, sour sweet, or sweet. The anatomical character of the mangosteen leaf and four species of its relatives show the paracytic stomata on the abaxial surface only except on the leaf of G. forbersii, which is found on the abaxial and adaxial sustance, the epidermal cells are square to rectangular, the wall is straight or slighty winding except that of G. forbesii which is sharply winding or zig-zag

Microscopic characterization and HPTLC of the leaves, stems and roots of Fadogia agrestis – an African folk medicinal plant

Fadogia agrestis Schweinf. ex Hiern (Vangueria agrestis (Schweinf. ex Hiern) Lantz), Rubiaceae, is an African traditional medicinal plant also used as a dietary supplement in the US. The present paper is the first report of the pharmacognostic study of the leaf, stem and root of F. agrestis by microscopy, HPTLC and total phenolic/flavonoid content analyses. Noteworthy microscopic features that can help in identification and quality control are septate and lignified non-glandular trichomes on leaf and stem epidermises, paracytic stomata on leaf abaxial epidermis, numerous cells containing yellow substances of presumably phenolic compounds in leaf and stem, calcium oxalate druses and prismatic crystals in leaf and styloids in stem, primary phloem fibers in stem, brachysclereids in stem and root, spherical starch grains in root, and vessels with vestured pits and simple perforated end walls. In addition to microscopy, a total phenolic/flavonoid content determination and an HPTLC method were also developed for rapid chemical fingerprint analyses of Fadogia samples and dietary supplements.

Aspects of ecological anatomy of Traganum nudatum Del. (Amaranthaceae) from the Northeast of the Algerian Sahara

This study focuses on the anatomical strategies developed by the Traganum nudatum Del., prevalent in the Algerian Sahara, particularly in the region of Oued Righ, which allows to this species to survive in a harsh environment (aridity and salinity). The anatomical structure of this species was studied using fresh materials (roots, stems and leaves). These materials have been collected from several individuals in different saline habitats. Some interesting features such as successive cambia phenomenon, calcium oxalate crystals, Kranz anatomy (salsoloid subtype), succulence, low stomata density, low stomata index, the presence of the papillae, paracytic stomata and other structures have been noticed. We can conclude that the ecological significance of evidenced adaptations by T. nudatum is supported in this article by the analysis of adaptations of other species belonging either to the Amaranthaceae or to other botanical families; and that this adaptation has no link with botanical families. In these species, the key adaptation is the ability to maintain growth processes and water saving under difficult living conditions (high summer temperatures or salty soils), regardless of the evolutionary level of the taxon.

Morphological and Anatomical Properties of the Senna Alexandrina Mill. (Cassia Angustifolia Vahl.)

Abstract It was studied the Senna alexandrina Mill. Fabaceae, Caesalpinioideae subfamily, synonym Cassia angustifolia Vahl. that has high pharmaceutical importance. The assessment was done using the plants growth in the research field of Botanical Garden. There were assessed the morphological characteristics and anatomical analysis were done in the stem and leaves. In the Romanian climatic conditions the Senna alexandrina is annual plant with taproot and the size of the stem is 40-70 cm. The leaves are alternate, pinnately compound with 3 to 7 pairs of minor leaflets and small stipules (2-3 mm). The leaflets are 2.5 - 4.5 cm length and 7-10 mm width, lanceolate to ovate in shape, entire blade, glabrous, acute apex, cuneate base, green to yellow-green colour. The flowers are yellow, with the terminal racemes of 10-15 cm length with 7-12 (19) flowers. The flowering starts in July until September. The fruit is a glabrous dehiscent pod, with 4-6 cm length, including 10-17 seeds. In the internal structure of the stem and rachis there are collaterally opened vascular bundles.The leaflets are amphystomatic with paracytic stomata and dorsiventrally mesophyll.

Physicochemical, Phytochemical and Pharmacognostic study of Limonium stocksii, a halophyte from Gujarat

The halophyte Limonium stocksii (Boiss) Kuntze belongs to the family Plumbaginaceae. In the present work, pharmacognostic studies of this medicinal halophyte was attempted which included physicochemical, phytochemical, macroscopic, microscopic studies and organoleptic evaluation. The plant powder characteristics were also elucidated. The physicochemical analyses were done by using WHO recommended parameters such as loss on drying, ash values (total ash, water soluble ash, acid insoluble ash, sulphated ash, carbonated ash, nitrated ash), extractive values. The qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of saponins, steroids and coumarins in maximum amount in crude as well as in various solvent extracts. The morphological studies exhibited the organoleptic and surface characteristics of the plant and its parts. The microscopic study showed the presence of various characteristics of whole plant like palisade tissue, metaxylem, protoxylem, phloem showed companion cells, bicollateral type of vascular bundles, parenchyma, rosette calcium oxalate crystals and paracytic stomata. The pharmacognostic characters enlisted in this study will help in identification of the crude drug; the standardization parameters laid down will ensure the efficacy of drug and also distinguish the drug from its adulterants. The distinguishing characters will also be helpful for the preparation of monograph of this halophytic plant.

Pharmacognostic studies and elemental analysis of the leaves of &lt;i&gt;Cassia obtusifolia&lt;/i&gt; Linn. (Family Fabaceae)

The plant Cassia obtusifolia , family Fabaceae, found in northern Nigeria and in most tropical and sub-tropical countries, is eaten as food as well as employed ethno-medically in the treatment of various ailments. These include treatment of furuncles and ulcers, and externally for conjunctivitis. The aim of this study is to determine some of the pharmacognostic characters of the leaves of C. obtusifolia . The macroscopic, microscopic, organoleptic and chemomicroscopic characters as well as the numerical standards, preliminary phytochemical screening and elemental analysis of the leaves were determined. The microscopical studies showed unicellular covering trichome that is conical in shape, with thick and distinctly warty walls. Scattered paracytic stomata, appearing both in the upper and lower surfaces. The results of the numerical standards showed the moisture content, total ash, acid insoluble ash, water and alcohol extractive values of 17.5, 12.0, 3.0, 16.0 and 8.0 respectively. Preliminary phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of tannins, coumarin derivatives and saponins while the elemental analysis shows the presence of important metals such as potassium (7680 ± 1150), calcium (14900 ± 1070) and chromium (143 ± LDL). The present study will be of benefits in developing a standardized profile of the leaves of C. obtusifolia , which would be of immense use to identify and establish the authenticity of the plant. Keywords: Cassia obtusifolia , Fabaceae, Pharmacognostic, Tafasa, Elemental analysis

Pharmacognostical and Phytochemical Exploration of Merremia aegyptia (L.) Urb. Leaf

Background: Merremia aegyptia (L.) Urb. belongs to the family Convolvulaceae. It is locally known as panch pan ni fudardi or Gariyavel by the people of Gujarat. Ethnomedicinally, leaves of M. aegyptia are claimed to be used in the management of shotha, vrana, etc. Though traditionally it is a well-known plant but no proper scientific evaluation of its pharmacognostical character and preliminary phytochemical analysis has been reported till date. Materials and method: The present study has been carried out to establish the standardization of leaf of the plant through its macro- and microscopical characters, physicochemical analysis, alkaloids, tannin, saponin and other qualitative tests, and chromatographic study per the standard procedure. Result and discussion: The macroscopic study showed that leaves are 12–15 cm in length, 10–12 cm in width, reticulate venation, and a petiole of 8–10 cm long. Leaves transverse section (TS) showed the presence of trichomes, collenchyma, and vascular bundles. Powder microscopy of the dried leaves showed the presence of paracytic stomata on the lower epidermis and unicellular trichomes of the epidermis, rosette, and prismatic crystals of calcium oxalate. The analytical study shows the presence of alkaloids, tannins, and carbohydrates. The high performance thin layer chrometography (HPTLC) study showed three spots at 254 nm and five spots at 366 nm. Conclusion: The observed data can be helpful to identify and standardize the leaf of M. aegyptia (L.) Urb.

LEAF MORPHOLOGY AND ANATOMY OF VARIETIES OF TURNERA DIFFUSA VAR. DIFFUSA AND TURNERA DIFFUSA VAR. APHRODISIACA (WARD) URB

Background: Mexican damiana (Turnera diffusa Willd. Ex. Schult), specifically damiana of California has a high demand in the international market for its popularity as aphrodisiac, but its marketing has been affected by the adulteration of its products due to a lack of authentication mechanisms and limited information on the differences between the two currently known varieties. The aim of this study was to establish a leaf standard monograph with scientific bases of the varieties aphrodisiaca and diffusa of Turnera diffusa Willd. Ex. Schult, cultivated at the same agronomic and environmental conditions.&#x0D; Material and Methods: Damiana leaves were collected from a cultivar located in the municipality of Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico in 2016. The pharmacognostic studies were carried out in terms of macroscopic and both optical and electronic microscopic characteristics of leaves of the two varieties for their distinction.&#x0D; Results: The leaves of diffusa variety were twice as large as those of the aphrodisiaca variety, whereas papillose glandular trichomes were observed with greater density in the aphrodisiaca variety than those on diffusa leaves where unicellular trichomes were the ones observed in greater density. The leaves of both varieties are dorsiventral and hypostomatic with paracytic stomata.&#x0D; Conclusion: The obtained qualitative and quantitative leaf standards provide reference information for the proper identification and monograph preparation of the aphrodisiaca and diffusa varieties of Turnera diffusa. Pharmacognostic characteristics such as the type of stomata, trichomes, and leaf identify the species, whereas characteristics as leaf size and trichome density differ between varieties.

Clusia criuva Cambess. (Clusiaceae): anatomical characterization, chemical prospecting and antioxidant activity.

This study aims the anatomical description and chemical characterization of aerial parts of Clusia criuva Cambess., Clusiaceae in addition to the evaluation of the antioxidant activity of crude extracts, correlated to the flavonoid content. The morphological characterization was performed using traditional techniques of plant anatomy. For phytochemical studies, crude extracts were obtained by static maceration and analyzed by thin layer chromatography. The antioxidant activity and the flavonoids content were determined by colorimetric methods involving, respectively, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical and aluminum chloride. C. criuva has uniseriate epidermis, paracytic stomata, hypostomatic leaves, cuticular flanges and cordiform vascular cylinder with accessory bundles. Chemical prospecting confirmed the abundant presence of terpenes and phenols in the extracts of leaves and of fruits. The methanolic extract of seeds showed the lowest EC50 value, but the methanolic extract of pericarps exhibited the highest maximum antioxidant activity. The results suggested a high percentage of flavonoids in the hexanic extract of pericarps, however, this could represent, in fact, the presence of benzophenones. Secretory ducts and the shape of the midrib are diagnostic for C. criuva. The antioxidant activity is not directly related to the flavonoids. The results indicate the importance of future studies with C. criuva chemical constituents.

English

Cassytha filiformis, a leafless and perennial vine with small scales as a replacement of the leaves is currently being used in the treatment of various disease conditions such as jaundice. Macroscopic/ organoleptic characters, microscopic, chemo-microscopic characters, numerical standards, and elemental analysis were determined from the whole plant of C. filiformis. Findings from this study revealed the presence of some diagnostic microscopical features such as paracytic stomata, unicellular covering trichomes with cystoliths, prismatic calcium oxalate crystals and annular xylem vessels. Quantitative physical constants include moisture contents (5.5 %), ash value (17 %), acid insoluble ash value (1 %), total tannins (27.3 %), swelling index (165 %), water, ethanol and oil extractive indices (20.6, 13.6 and 1.6%, respectively). Trace metals such as Fe (165.4279 ppm), Mn (14.4093 ppm) and Ni (2.7933 ppm) detected in C. filiformis were higher than FAO/WHO (1984) permissible limit for edible plants, While others: Pb (0.0568 ppm), Zn (0.1094 ppm), Cd (0.0103 ppm) and Cu (0.0535 ppm) were found to be within the safety limit. The aim of this work was to study the pharmacognostic, characters, elemental analysis and numerical standard of C. filiformis. Key words: Atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS), Rumfar gada, Lauraceae, pharmacognosy.

A STUDY ON THE STANDARDIZATION PARAMETERS OF CASSIA ANGUSTIFOLIA

Objective: Now-a-days, the herbal medicines are much efficient for the treatment of various disorders as they have minimal side effects in comparison to the allopathic medicines. Cassia angustifolia, commonly called Senna belongs to the family Leguminosae and is a well-known laxative throughout the world. Senna is mostly found in Tirunelveli, Madurai, and Ramnathpuram districts of Tamil Nadu. Carbohydrates, tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, and amino acid are the important chemical constituents of C. angustifolia. The objectives of the present study are to investigate various pharmacognostic, phytochemical analysis, and pharmacological properties of C. angustifolia.Methods: The powdered drug was used for estimating the loss on drying, ash values, fluorescence studies, chemical tests, and extractive values. Macroscopic and microscopic studies were also performed.Results: The transverse section (T.S). of leaf showed isobilateral structure along with paracytic stomata, nonlignified unicellular trichomes with warty walls, and fibrovascular bundle. The fluorescence characteristics of leaf powder were studied both in visible light and ultraviolet (UV) light (254 nm and 365 nm) after treatment with various reagents. Senna is composed of carbohydrates, tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, and amino acid. It was reported that the total ash value was 11.23±0.25 w/w. The acid insoluble ash value was 1.4±0.1% w/w. Water soluble, ethanol, methanol, petroleum ether, and chloroform extractive values were 16.6±0.26% w/w, 3.7±1.75% w/w, 0.83±0.05% w/w, 1.6±0.1% w/w, and 3.2±0.25% w/w, respectively.Conclusion: The main pharmacological activities of Bauhinia variegata are anthelmintic, antiulcer, antitumor, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antigoitrogenic, and hepatoprotective. The present investigation provides the information on its pharmacognostic, phytochemical analysis, and pharmacological properties.