Morpho-anatomical and preliminary phytochemical studies of leaves of Gynandropsis pentaphylla Linn.

Abstract

Gynandropsis pentaphylla Linn (Fam:Cleomaceae) is also known as Arkapushpika, Suryavarita in Sanskrit, Churota, Arkahuli in Hindi, Velai keerai, Thaivelai in Tamil, belonging to the family of Cleomaceae  is an annual, erect, branched, 0.6-1.2 m in height, stems and branches striate, white spreading hairs. Leaves 3-5 foliolate, petioles 5-7.6 cm long, and seeds muricate dark brown. The plant has been traditionally used as an anthelmentic and rubefacient. Leaves are applied externally over the wounds to prevent the sepsis. The plant also used in the treatment of malaria, piles, rheumatism and in tumour. The decoction of the root is used to treat fevers. The juice of the root is used to relieve scorpion stings. The leaves, applied as a poultice, are used as a vesicant and rubefacient in the treatment of rheumatism. The juice of the leaves is a remedy for pain in the ear. The whole plant is used in the treatment of scorpion stings and snake bites. The present investigation deals with the qualitative and quantitative microscopic evaluation of the leaf material and establishment of the quality parameters including physicochemical and phytochemical evaluation. The microscopical studies revealed the presence of mesophyll tissue, venation pattern, anomocytic stomata and glandular trichomes etc,. Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, tannins, glycosides, phenolic compounds, flavanoids, saponins, protein and amino acids, steroids, etc was done by standard methods.