Pharmacognostic studies on Neuracanthus sphaerostachyus Dalz. (Acanthaceae) leaves

BACKGROUND: Neuracanthus sphaerostachyus Dalz. species shows the spherically arranged flowering head. Mostly flowers are observed in purple colour. It is an annual herb with 30–60 cm high. Flowers arranged in rounded clusters without a stalk. Leaves are 5–10 cm in length, and are almost without a stalk. N.sphaerostachyus has been traditionally used to treat skin diseases, cough and asthma. OBJECTIVE: The present study was undertaken to study the Pharmacognostic parameters for the rapid identification and authentication of the plant. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The macroscopic and microscopic characteristics with intensive quantitative microscopy of N.sphaerostachyus Dalz leaves were done using different chemicals and reagents. RESULTS: The plant leaves show single layered, wavy walled cells in upper epidermis. Powder study of leaves shows light greenish colour with multicellular covering trichomes and sessile glandular trichomes with fibres passing through parenchymatous cells. CONCLUSION: The macroscopic and microscopic characteristics of N.sphaerostachyus Dalz leaves serves as a tool for low cost, rapid identification and authentication of this plant.