Distinguishing Micro-characters of Medicinal Plant: Euphorbia hirta L. and their Significance

Abstract

The distinguishing microcharacters of various parts of Euphorbia hirta L. has been investigated. Root is diarch. In old root xylem has roundish, angular, solitary vessel elements and uniseriate xylem rays. In young stem 18-20 collateral vascular bundles are observed in ring. Vascular cambium produces secondary vascular tissues. Epidermal surface of stem, lamina, midrib and petiole is covered by multicellular, uniseriate, filiform, cylindrical and bent trichomes. Stomata are Anomocytic. Node is trilacunar three stress. A single large roundish collateral strand is present in the center of midrib which is completely or partially encircled by latex cells. Petiole has 3 small collateral vascular bundles arranged in a crescentic manner. Distinguishing characters have significance in solving taxonomic problems and importance in identification of crude drugs from this taxon.