Online ISSN: 2515-8260

Pharmacognostical investigation of Root and Leaf of Lactuca sativa L.

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Bansari Jadeja1 , Dr. C.R. Harisha2 , Dr. M. B. Nariya3

Abstract

Background: Lactuca sativa Linn. (Asteraceae) is known as Kahu and is widely used as the Salad because of its high nutritional value. This plant also possesses good pharmacological activity and was also useful in traditional medicine. It possesses sedative-hypnotic, antiinflammatory, antifugal, anti- diabetic activity. So far there has been no any scientific documentation available. Aim and Objectives: The present study was conducted on the root and leaf of Lactuca sativa L. to identify its pharmacognostical characteristics as per parameters of Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API). Materials and Methods: Plant authentication, Organoleptic, Microscopic and Powder study was performed by following standard procedures as per Ayurvedic Pharmacopeia of India. Results and Discussion: Lactuca sativa L. have simple tap root system. The fresh roots are slightly smooth to the touch, yellowish brown in color which turns brownish colour after drying. The microscopic characteristic of the root shows outer cork, followed by cortex and vascular bundle. Some of the laticiferous cells are present in the cortex region. The leaf is dorsiventral. Transverse section of leaf shows outer epidermis followed by mesophyll cells consist of upper spongy parenchyma and lower palisade cells followed by lower epidermis. Epidermal cells shows the presence of both anisocytic and anomocytic type of stomata. Conclusion: This study would be useful in the identification and authentication of the raw drug.

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