Investigation of Pharmacognostical and Preliminary Phytochemical Characters of Enicostemma Littorale

Abstract

Objectives: Enicostemma littorale (Gentianaceae), a perennial herb found across India, was researched for its entire pharmacognostic profile and early phytochemical analysis. For millennia, it has been utilised as an anti-diabetic, urinary astringent, anti-periodic, anthelmintic, anti-inflammatory, laxative, and hepatoprotective drug. Techniques: Leaf, stem, and root samples of E.littorale were examined utilising Macroscopical, Microscopical, Physiochemical, and Phytochemical analysis of the plant powder, as well as other WHO-specified standardising procedures. Results: On the surface, the leaves are simple. Fresh leaves are dark green and lanceolate, with a strong flavour and peculiar odour. Under the microscope, the leaf revealed a distinct epidermal layer of small squarish cells with a distinct cuticle. Calcium oxalate crystals of druses or Sphaerocrystals are widespread in the leaf-mesophyll tissue. Anisocytic stomata were more prominently detected. Anatomical analysis of the leaf reveals single basal cell, multi-cellular, and non-glandular trichomes as diagnostic traits. The distinguishing characteristics of stem were epidermis with thick cuticle and unilayered tiny cells compactly packed. Thin walled, compact parenchyma cells with small xylem fibres are visible in the transverse slice of the roots. Powder microscopy indicated the existence of parenchyma cells, xylem fibres, and anisocyticstomata in the epidermis. Tannins, betacyanin, quinone, glycosides, phenols, flavanoids, and alkaloids were discovered during preliminary phy to chemical screening. Conclusions: The foregoing results provide vital information about this plant that will be used in future research of this plant.