Pharmacognostic evaluation and phytochemical studies on leaves of Vitex leucoxylon Linn

Introduction:Vitex Leucoxylon Linn. (family Verbenreae) is found commonly in India. This plant is a large deciduous tree, commonly known as Songarbhi (Marathi). It is small to large tree with a thick trunk and a spreading crown found almost throughout the Indian Deccan peninsular. The trees are generally found on river banks, streams and ponds. Recent pharmacological findings indicate that the crude alcoholic extract of its leaves possess anti-psychotic, anti-depressant, analgesic, anti-parkinsonian, anti-microbial activities, anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. However, no conclusive pharmacognostic study of its leaves has been performed yet. Methods: The present investigation deals with the qualitative and quantitative microscopic evaluation of the leaf material and the establishment of quality parameters including physicochemical and phytochemical evaluation. Results: Chief macroscopic and microscopic characters include midrib, lamina, venation pattern, stomata, epidermal trichomes, sclereids, powder microscopy and phytochemical evaluation done by standard methods. Conclusion: The results would serve as a useful gauge of standardization of leaf material and ensuring quality formulations.