Pharmacognostic Studies on the Stems of <i>Argemone mexicana</i> Linn. (Family Papaveraceae)

Abstract

Macroscopical, microscopical, chemo-microscopical and quantitative studies on the leaves of Argemone mexicana Linn (Fam. Papaveraceae) were carried out. Morphologically, the stem is of variable size, mostly light green in colour. There was presence of white substances (wax) at the surfaces and it's prickly in nature. Yellow sap exudes from the stem immediately after an incision. Microscopically, Features of interests observed were the presence of anomocytic stomata which is few in number, starch grains, fibres and xylem vessel thickening are of types, these are annular, spiral, reticulate and scalariform. On the aspect chemo-microscopical studies, cellulose, starch grains, lignins, tannins, prismed calcium oxalate crystals were observed. Quantitative determinations of the stems revealed on the average moisture contents (9.7 % w/w),ash-value (8.5% w/w), acid-insoluble ash ( 4.5% w/w ) alcohol-soluble extractive (8.0% w/w) water-soluble extractive value, ( 15.0 % w/w) These results could serve as a guide in the identification and preparation of a monograph of the plant

Keywords: Macroscopy; Microscopy; Chemomicroscopy; Argemone mexicana L.

Journal of Pharmacy and Bioresources Vol. 4 (2) 2007: pp.59-63