Botanical pharmacognosy of stem of Gmelina asiatica Linn
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Botanical pharmacognosy of stem of Gmelina asiatica Linn
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Original source:
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R. Kannan, K. Prasant, U. V. Babu
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Botanical pharmacognosy of stem of Gmelina asiatica Linn
Year: 2012
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Gmelina asiatica Linn, also known as G. parvifolia, is a large shrub or small tree belonging to the family Lamiaceae, prevalent in peninsular India. Traditionally, its roots and other aerial parts hold medicinal value, especially in Ayurvedic medicine. Despite the established efficacy of the roots, the increasing demand and depletion of genuine herbal supplies have prompted the investigation of alternative sources, such as the plant's stem. The present study focuses on the botanical pharmacognosy of the stem, detailing its unique macroscopical and microscopical features, thereby distinguishing it from the roots.
Pharmacognosical Characteristics of the Stem
One significant finding of this research is the identification of several diagnostic features of the stem that can help differentiate it from the roots. These include the presence of a hollow pith, faint annual growth rings, and the arrangement of macrosclereids and bundle cap fibers in the secondary phloem. Moreover, the stem contains abundant starch grains and calcium oxalates, especially in pith and ray cells, which were specifically noted to be absent in the roots. Additionally, while roots often showcase tylosis, a condition characterized by the obstruction of vessel elements, this feature was not found in the stem. This lack of tylosis, along with the other identified morphological traits, serves as pivotal criteria for distinguishing between stem and root materials in herbal products.
Conclusion
The findings underscore the potential of using stems of Gmelina asiatica as a substitute for its roots in herbal preparations, thus providing an essential direction for sustainable practices in herbal medicine. The study not only lays foundational pharmacognostical insights into the stem's structure and composition but also encourages further investigations into its pharmacological and phytochemical properties. As herbal medicine continues to adapt to changing ecological and market dynamics, the findings of this research provide critical data to ensure the legitimacy and therapeutic efficacy of herbal products derived from G. asiatica.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the primary focus of the study on Gmelina asiatica?
The study primarily focuses on the botanical pharmacognostical characters of the stem of Gmelina asiatica, especially to differentiate it from the roots and to provide its diagnostic features.
How can stem and root of Gmelina asiatica be differentiated?
Key differences include the absence of tylosis in the stem, hollow pith, and distinct microscopic features like alternatively arranged macrosclereids in the phloem that help distinguish between stem and root samples.
What medicinal properties are associated with Gmelina asiatica?
Gmelina asiatica is known for its traditional medicinal uses. Research indicates that both the roots and stem may have antioxidant, anti-hyperglycemic, and hepatoprotective effects, making them valuable in herbal medicine.
What are the key diagnostic features of Gmelina asiatica stem?
The stem has a hollow pith, faint annual rings, macrosclereids, and abundant starch grains and calcium oxalates. These features help in accurately identifying and verifying the herbal material in commercial samples.