Anatomical studies in the leaves of Hydnocarpus pentandrus (Buch.-Ham) Oken.

Abstract

Hydnocarpus is a genus of flowering plant, commonly called chaulmoogra, belonging to the family Achariaceae. The folklore claims the use of whole plant for curing various ailments. The oil extracted from seeds of Hydnocarpus pentandrus (Buch. -Ham) Oken contains secondary metabolites such as Glycosides, carbohydrates, proteins, tannins, saponins etc. leaves contain various medicinal properties. Standardization is essential measure for quality, purity & sample identification. Macroscopic characters, along with the microscopy is one of the simplest & cheapest methods to start with for establishing and correct identity of the source materials. In the present study deals with the anatomical study of the plant like venation, types of stomata, stomatal frequency, stomatal index & sections of leaf, stem & petiole of Hydnocarpus pentandrus was undertaken. This study will be helpful in correct identification of the plant materials which is of medicinal importance.