African Journal of Biotechnology Vol. 5 (10), pp. 956-957, 16 May 2006   

ISSN 1684–5315 © 2006 Academic Journals        

Short Communication

Pharmacognostic investigation of the leaves of Gisekia pharnacioides

K. Y. Musa^*, A. U. Katsayal, A. Ahmed, Z. Mohammed and U. H. Danmalam

Department of Pharmacognosy and Drug Development, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria.

*Corresponding author. E-mail: kabiryusuf2000@yahoo.co.uk.

Accepted 8 March, 2006

Pharacognostic investigation of the fresh, powdered and anatomical sections of the leaves of Gisekia pharnacioides Linn was carried out to determine its macro- and microscopical characters and also some of its physical constants.  Externally, the leaves possess a symmetrical base, an entire margin, obtuse apex and a pilose surface. Internally, its shows the presences of an anisocytic stomata, unicellular, uniseriated-covering trichomes with swollen base and an acute apex, prism and clustered crystals of calcium oxalate and fiber elements. The chemo-microscopy revealed the presences of lignin, mucilage, proteins, starch grains, fats and oils. Phytochemical studies of the powdered leaves revealed the presences of tannins, alkaloids, resins, cardiac glycosides, flavoniods and some carbohydrates. The results of the study could be useful in setting some diagnostic indices for the identification and preparation of a monograph of the plant.

Key words: Gisekia pharnacieoides, pharmacognostic standardization, leaf morphology.