PHARMACOGNOSTICAL STUDIES ON THE STEM BARK OF “ANNONA GLABRA”

In the present study, an attempt was made to investigate Pharmacognostical studies on the stem bark of Annona glabra (Annonaceae). The plant was identified and authenticated by Dr. V. Rama Rao, Research officer (Botany), Central Ayurveda Research Institute, Bengaluru. The macroscopical studies have been carried out on the stem bark. The Characters of transverse section of stem bark shows periderm, consisting of 3-4 layers of cork, 2-3 layers of phellogen and 6-7 layers of Phelloderm. The cortex region shows the presence of parenchymatous cells. Group of fibres in patches in the outer and inner cortex. The secondary cortex consists of moderately thick-walled, parenchymatous cells. Medullary rays were present, these are bi, tri or multiseriates in the region of the inner secondary phloem. Starch grains are present. The longitudinal section shows multiseriate ray initials and single, long, septate fusiform initials, ends are arranged at different levels fusiform initials or non-stratified cambium. Starch grains are also present in the parenchyma cells. Powder shows reddish brown in colour, fragments of parenchymatous cells embedded with brownish content; fragments of cork cells; Group of Prismatic Crystals; Pitted tracheid; Scalari form vessel; Xylem fibres, trichomes with tannin content. Physicochemical parameters such as moisture content, total ash value, sulphated ash value, Acid insoluble ash value, water-soluble ash value and extractive value were determined. These can serve in qualifying and differentiating the plant. This research provides valuable insights that will benefit future researchers in their endeavors.