Pharmacognostic Standardization and Physicochemical Analysis of Clerodendrum wallichi (Merr.) Leaves

Presently, the use of herbal medicines is expanding rapidly across the world. While considering source materials, authentication and standardization are prerequisites for herbal formulation in any system of medicine. The plant Clerodendrum wallichii Merr. (Family: Lamiaceae) has been used for various ailments in traditional systems of medicines, particularly in the treatment of diarrhea, skin infection, inflammation and fever. The present study was designed to establish the pharmacognostic standards and perform the physicochemical analysis of C. wallichii leaves. Macroscopic and microscopic studies were performed using the simple and trinocular microscope, respectively. The World Health Organization guidelines were followed for the physicochemical analysis of the plant. Fluorescence analysis was observed at daylight, short UV light, and long UV light. The leaves of C. wallichii were found dark green on the upper surface and light green in the lower surface which is odorless and bitter. The leaves are oblong to oblong-lanceolate with a smooth surface. The size of leaves varies from 11 to 18 cm in length and 2.5 to 4 cm in diameter. Powdered microscopy showed the various characters like rare multicellular covering trichome, xylem vessels (reticulate), fiber, trichome base, stellate trichome, adaxial epidermal cell (rectangular), abaxial epidermal cell (irregular), vessels, stomata (anisocytic), calcium oxalate crystals (square and cubic). Physicochemical parameters like moisture content of dry powder of the plant was determined 9.3% w/w. The total ash, acid-insoluble, and water-soluble ash values were calculated as 10.48%, 1.08%, and 8.17%, respectively. The loss on drying was calculated as 9.3% w/w. Extractive values by cold and hot maceration method were also determined. Our obtained data help to authenticate the plant and establish its pharmacopoeial standards.