Microscopic investigation and pharmacognostic evaluation of leaves of Anemone rupicola Camb.

There is almost no scientific literature available on the phytochemistry and pharmacognosy of this plant so the basic aim of the study is to analyze pharmacognostic features of dried leaves of Anemone rupicola Camb. Morphology was studied by using the features like margins, shape, length, width, surface and so forth. For anatomical examination leaves were preserved in formalin acetic alcohol (FAA) and cutting the thin section of leaves and petiole with razor blade. Macroscopic characters of powdered drug were evaluated through organoleptic method. Qualitative phytochemical analysis was done by adopting the standard procedures. The antimicrobial activity of methanolic extract of Anemone rupicola Camb. was performed by Agar well diffusion method. The powder microscopic study showed epidermal cells, trichomes, various type of tracheids, pitted vessels, and sclerenchymatous fibers. Transverse cutting of leaves and petiole revealed the presence of different cells such as epidermis, palisade parenchyma, spongy parenchyma cells, aerenchyma, collenchyma, trichomes, and vascular bundles. The investigation of phytochemicals in distilled water, methanol and in ethanol solvent indicated the presence of various secondary compounds such as phenols, saponins, glycosides, alkaloids, tannins, cardiac glycosides, terpenoids, coumarins, and flavonoids. The methanolic extract of Anemone rupicola Camb. has potential as an antimicrobial agent. However, further studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety. This study can be used as powerful tool for the identification and authentication of this plant. For the purity and quality control these results will be helpful tool. This will also shed light into new areas where researchers can intervene in developing new drugs for future use. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Morphological Features of the Anemone rupicola Anatomical examination of leaves of Anemeone rupicola Microscopic features of powdered drug of leaves of Anemone rupicola Qualitative Phytochemical analysis of the leaves of Anemone rupicola.