Pharmacognostic studies and elemental analysis of the leaves of <i>Cassia obtusifolia</i> Linn. (Family Fabaceae)

Abstract

The plant Cassia obtusifolia, family Fabaceae, found in northern Nigeria and in most tropical and sub-tropical countries, is eaten as food as well as employed ethno-medically in the treatment of various ailments. These include treatment of furuncles and ulcers, and externally for conjunctivitis. The aim of this study is to determine some of the pharmacognostic characters of the leaves of C. obtusifolia. The macroscopic, microscopic, organoleptic and chemomicroscopic characters as well as the numerical standards, preliminary phytochemical screening and elemental analysis of the leaves were determined. The microscopical studies showed unicellular covering trichome that is conical in shape, with thick and distinctly warty walls. Scattered paracytic stomata, appearing both in the upper and lower surfaces. The results of the numerical standards showed the moisture content, total ash, acid insoluble ash, water and alcohol extractive values of 17.5, 12.0, 3.0, 16.0 and 8.0 respectively. Preliminary phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of tannins, coumarin derivatives and saponins while the elemental analysis shows the presence of important metals such as potassium (7680±1150), calcium (14900±1070) and chromium (143 ± LDL). The present study will be of benefits in developing a standardized profile of the leaves of C. obtusifolia, which would be of immense use to identify and establish the authenticity of the plant.

Keywords: Cassia obtusifolia, Fabaceae, Pharmacognostic, Tafasa, Elemental analysis