Pharmacognostic study of Tylophora dalzellii Hook.f.

Abstract

Plants are a great source of medicines, especially in traditional medicine, which are useful in the treatment of various diseases. Tylophora dalzellii a medicinal member belongs to the tribe Marsdenieae of the family Asclepiadaceae.Traditionally, T. dalzellii has been used in treatment of asthma, dermatitis and rheumatism. However, it has not yet been studied pharmacognostically. The study includes macroscopy and microscopy, anatomy, phytochemistry including fluorescence and ash analysis of the leaf and stem of T. dalzellii. Phytochemical screening of the plant revealed the presence of tannins, saponins and alkaloids. The detailed pharmacognostic account of T. dalzellii which includes macroscopic and microscopic characters will be helpful for the correct botanical identification of the drug. In addition, the values of percentage extractive and ash analysis, results of fluorescence analysis and phytochemical data will be helpful for the standardization and quality control of precious indigenous drug. The study scientifically validates the use of plant in traditional medicine.   Key words: Tylophora dalzellii, pharmacognosy, Asclepiadaceae.