Pharmacognostic Study of Leaves of Cordia rothii Linn

Introduction: Cordia rothii Linn. syn. Cordia sinensis. (Family - Boraginaceae) is found commonly in India. Recent pharmacological findings indicate that its fruits possess significant activities like astringent, demulcent, diuretic, purgative, anti-ulcer, hepatoprotective, which comply with the claims made in the traditional medicinal texts. 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 establishment of its quality parameters, including physicochemical and phytochemical evaluation. Results: Chief microscopic characters include vascular bundles having patches of perimedullary phloem and very long unicellular covering trichomes. Chief characters of powder include cylindrical shaped trichomes, calcium oxalate prisms, cluster crystals and xylem vessels in spiral shape. Conclusion: Such a study would serve as a useful gauge in standardization of the leaf material and ensuring quality formulations.