Pharmacognostic Evaluation of Galls of Pistacia integerrima stew ex. Brandis and Its Substitute Populus alba Linn.

Abstract

In the traditional system of Ayurveda, the gall of Karkatshringi (Pistacia integerrima) is a well-known drug used in paediatric diseases. Anatomical studies of the galls of Pistacia integerrima and its substitute Populus alba which is also sold under the name of Karkatshringi in Ayurvedic raw drug market were carried out and compared. After taxonomic confirmation, observed galls morphology, galls anatomy and powder microscopy as per standard procedures. Galls of these two species are distinct in their morphology as well as anatomical characters. Based on the external morphological and anatomical characters, a diagnostic key is prepared which can be used as a supporting tool for taxonomic delimitation of the species coming under the Karkatshrungi complex as well as to ascertain the identity of the drug Karkatshringi.