Pharmacognostic and Physicochemical investigation of Pterospermum acerifolium Willd leaves (Sterculiaceae)

Abstract:

Pterospermum acerifolium Willd, a large tree belonging to the family Sterculiaceae, is widely distributed in India particularly in sub-Himalayan tract and outer Himalayan valleys. In present study pharmaconostic and physicochemical investigation of Pterospermum acerifolium has been carried out. Qualitative studies indicated presence of abundant covering and glandular trichomes, anmocytic stomata, 3–5 groups of oval shaped vascular bundles, dorsiventral type of leaf, calcium oxalate crystals, and heavy mucilage present, all physicochemical parameter are studied. These findings will be useful towards establishing pharmacognostic standards on identification, purity, quality and classification of the plant, which is gaining relevance in plant drug research, the identification and preparation of monograph of plant.