POWDER MACROSCOPIC AND MICROSCOPIC CHARACTERISTICS OF DIFFERENT SOURCES OF NIRGUNDI

Abstract

Introduction: Pharmacognosy is the study of unrefined pharmaceuticals derived from plants and animals using microscopic and macroscopic analysis for quality assurance and certification. Plays a key role in  plant identification.  Ayurveda is a science enriched with a wide variety of plant-based medications which are  effective in curing diseases and our wellness. Even though herbal medicines possess these qualities and are in high demand there remains controversy in the identity of some plants. Nirgundi a reputed drug used in Ayurveda is an example for having controversy in identity due to differences in synonyms mentioned in classical textbooks and lexicons and also due to differences found in botanical sources and regional varieties.

Materials and Methods:

Dried, powdered leaves were utilized for both powder macroscopic and microscopic examinations. Plant sources selected for study are represented with botanical names and sample codes namely Vitex negundo Linn var negundo (V1); Vitex negundo  Linn var purpurascens Sivar & Mold (V2); Vitex trifolia Linn (V3); and Vitex negundo Linn from North India (V4)—were assessed.

Result and Discussion

Powder macroscopy  of Samples V1, Sample V2,  Sample V3, and  Sample V4 showed similar characteristic features in terms of taste and odour all four  were found to be bitter and have characteristic order. Sample V1 and Sample V2 are dull green and Sample V3 and  Sample V4 are olive green in colour

Conclusion

Powder microscopy analysis showed distinctive characteristics in the samples. These included fragments of both lignified and non-lignified fibers, fragments of parenchyma cells, and starch grains