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Tropical Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Pharmacotherapy Group, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria
ISSN: 1596-5996 EISSN: 1596-5996
Vol. 8, No. 6, 2009, pp. 557-566
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Bioline Code: pr09072
Full paper language: English
Document type: Research Article
Document available free of charge
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Tropical Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, Vol. 8, No. 6, 2009, pp. 557-566
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Pharmacognostic Investigation of the Leaves and Stems of Viburnum erubescens Wall.ex DC
Prabhu, K.; Karar, P.K.; Ponnudurai, K. & Hemalatha, S.
Abstract
Purpose:
Some pharmacognostical investigations were carried out on the leaves and stems of
Viburnum erubescens Wall.ex DC to record parameters for identifying and differentiating various
species of Viburnum.
Methods:
The research specimens were authenticated and preserved both in fresh and dry forms. The
leaves and stems were morphologically screened followed by anatomical studies with the aid of Labphot
2 microscopic units. Powder microscopy and micrometric studies, including leaf constants, were
performed using suitable tools and reagents under different magnifications. Physicochemical
parameters such as alcohol and aqueous extractive values, ash values, crude fibre content for stem,
and fluorescence properties were also determined. The specimens were subjected to successive
extraction processes by Soxhlet method using solvents of increasing polarity. Qualitative chemical
screening tests with suitable reagents were also undertaken.
Results:
The leaves were petiolate and opposite, acuminate apex with unequal base, abaxial surfaces
which turned blackish on storage, and had irritant smell with a slightly bitter taste. The vein islets were
squarish and polygonal. Trichomes and club-shaped glandular trichomes were evident. The barks were
hard and brittle with abundant fissures. The periderm was four-layered followed by homogenous
parenchyma. The phloem region appeared with sclerenchyma elements; libriform fibres and tanniferous
cells were also evident. The presence of phytosterols, triterpenoids, glycosides (saponins) and phenolic
compounds (flavonoids and procyanidins) was positive for both the leaf and the stem.
Conclusion:
The findings of this study could be useful in identifying Viburnum species, both in whole
and powder form. Also, the parameters derived from this study may be useful in differentiating this
species from the rest of its relatives.
Keywords
Pharmacognostic investigation; Amoeboid; Caprifoliaceae; Libriform; Stone cells; Viburnum erubescens
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