Pharmacognostic studies of the leaves and seeds of Cassia occidentalis (Linn.) (Leguminosae)

Abstract

Cassia occidentalis is used in Ghana mainly for the management of hypertension. The aim of the present studies was to establish standardization parameters for the authentication and quality control of the leaf and seeds of Cassia occidentalis. The macromorphological, qualitative and quantitative features, physicochemical, phytochemical and some spectroscopic features of the medicinally used parts were evaluated using standard methods. The plant was found to be a glaborous herb with compound pinnate leaves. It has 6-8 pairs of leaflets. The leaflets are broadly lanceolate to ovate, with an acute apex and possessing a gland near the base of the leaf rachis. The seeds are ovoid about 4 mm long flattened with a smooth and hard testa. It is amphistomatic with anomocytic stomata. The quantitative indices of the leaf and physicochemical parameters have also been established. A 0.5% ethanol extract of the leaves and seeds showed characteristic UV maxima which may be invaluable in its identification. The pharmacognostic features established in this study may be used as part of a pharmacopoeial standard for the correct identification and quality control of Cassia occidentalis.