Pharmacognostic study of the leaf of Plantago rugelii Decne (Plantaginaceae)

Abstract

Medicinal plants are rich source of medicines for the treatment of various diseases. Plantago rugelii has been used in treatment of microbial infections, open ulcer wound ulcertation, pains amongs others. However, it has not yet been studied pharmacognostically. The study investigates the macroscopy and microscopy, phytochemical and ash analysis of the leaf of P. rugelii using standard procedures. The phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, carbohydrate, reducing sugars, deoxy sugars, phytosterols, protein and flavonoids. The detailed pharmacognostic account reported will be helpful for the correct botanical identification of the drug. In addition, the values of percentage extractive and ash analysis will be helpful for the standardization and quality control of herbal drugs. The study scientifically validates the use of plant in traditional medicine.