Macroscopic and Microscopic Evaluation of Sansevieria cylindrica Plant

Abstract

Aim and Objectives: The exploitation, adulteration and substitution of herbs is major hurdle for development of commercial natural products. Thus, the microscopic evaluation is the first step towards standardization of medicinal plant. A leaf from Sansevieria cylindricaBojer ex Hook is examined both macroscopically and microscopically in the current study.Materials and Methods: Sansevieria cylindricaBojer ex Hook (Asparagaceae) is an indoor ornamental plant. Macroscopic characteristics viz. size and shape, colour, odour and taste were studied. Microscopic evaluations were performed by means of high-resolution microscope. Anatomy of the leaves was examined by following standard method of section cutting.Results: The macroscopic assessment showed that the plant leaves are light to dark green in colour having highly fibrous structure. Stomatal constants of 230, 19.6% stomatal index, 53.34/mm2 vein islet number, and 79.12/mm2 vein termination number were noted in the leaves. Anomocytic stomata, unicellular trichomes, xylem fibres, oxalate crystals, vascular bundles, etc. were all revealed in detailed microscopy.Conclusion: The macroscopic and microscopic findings of the Sansevieria cylindricaleaf are applicable for standardization and authentication of plant.

Keywords: Microscopy; Purity etc; Quality; Sansevieria cylindrica; Stomata; Xylem