Pharmacognostic Studies of the Stem Bark of Enantia chlorantha Oliver (Annonaceae)

Abstract

Enantia chlorantha Oliver (Annonaceae) is commonly known as African yellow wood used as hepatoprotective, antiviral, antimalarial, antibacterial and antiulcer agents. The study was aimed to investigate the pharmacognostic and physiochemical parameters of E. chlorantha stem bark. The macroscopy, microscopy and chemomicroscopy of E. chlorantha were carried out using standard methods. Cell wall materials, cell inclusions and other diagnostic characters, which can aid in the easy and proper identification of the plant, were identified. The microscopic studies revealed the presence of sclereids, fibres, medullary ray, and calcium oxalate prisms. The physiochemical evaluation of was done, in order to ascertain quality and purity. This study provides additional useful information needed for determination of its identity and quality that can be added as enrichment of the pharmacopoeia of the plant.

Keywords: Pharmacognostic, Stem Bark, Enantia chlorantha