Pharmacognostic and phytochemical evaluation of Dolichos biflorus Linn.

ObjectiveTo study in detail the micromorphology and physicochemical analysis of the seeds of Dolichos biflorus Linn. (Family: Papileonaceae).MethodsMacroscopy, microscopy, physicochemical analysis, preliminary phytochemical screening and other WHO recommended parameters for standardizations were performed.ResultsThe seeds are roughly trapezoidal and flattish, with quite thin cotyledons. The hylum is small and linear and located in a small depression on the seed's lateral margin. The length of archeological specimens are usually 3.0–4.0 mm, width 2.0–2.6 mm and thickness 1.4–2.0 mm. Microscopic evaluation revealed the epidermis is single layered brown in colour, thin walled and shining cells because of mucilage in this layer. Endosperm forms bulk of the seed with thick walled polygonal parenchymatous cells. Outer portion of the seed contains alueron grains which are protein in nature. In the mid of the seeds, embryo can be seen which provides nutrition. Preliminary phytochemical screening showed the presence of steroids, tannins, proteins, aminoacids, flavonoids, terpenoids, mucilage, volatileoil, saponin and carbohydrates and absence of alkaloids, fixed oil.ConclusionsThe microscopic using histological identification, microscopic constants and other physico chemical examinations of the seeds of Dolichos biflorus Linn. can be used as a rapid, inexpensive botanical identification technique and is useful in standardization, hence it would be of immense value in authentication of seed.