Pharmacognostical studies in the leaves of Ceiba pentandra (L.) Gaertn.

Abstract

C. pentandra (L.) Gaertn, popularly known as ‘kapok’, is a medicinal plant with ethnobotanical importance. Morphological characterization of the plant will be useful in its identification. The study of microscopic foliar features revealed anisocytic stomata, glandular hairs and characteristics of veins such as presence of calcium oxalate crystals along the sides of veins, formation of loop by joining of free vein endings and veins covered with parenchymatous bundle sheath. Anatomy of leaf revealed the presence of mucilage cavities, calcium oxalate crystals and starch grains. Histochemical localization of starch, protein, alkaloids, flavonoids, lignin and tannin were performed. Powder microscopy and physicochemical analysis were also done. Phytochemical screening exposed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, steroids, terpenoids, saponins, phenol and resin. The pharmacognostic profile thus developed can serve as a standard for the quality control of Ceiba based herbal drugs.