Abstract

PHARMACOGNOSTIC CHARACTERISTICS OF AN UNEXPLORED TRADITIONAL MEDICINE ARECA CATECHU L. ROOT.

Alby Alphons Baby * and Dr. Regi Raphael K

ABSTRACT

Areca catechu L. ( Arecaceae ) is commonly known as Betel palm or Betel nut tree. It is cultivated primarily for its kernel obtained from the fruit, which is chewing in different forms. Uses for areca nut other than chewing are negligible. Extensive studies on the medicinal properties and chemical constituents of Areca fruit especially the nut is there but that of root is scarce. Areca catechu root is using in the traditional medicines of Kerala against worm disturbances, skin irritations and in urinary tract disorders. In order to ensure the purity of the drug in its dried form pharmacognostic standardization of the plant has carried out in the present work. Microscopic, histochemical and physico- chemical characters of A.catechu root were noted down. Phytochemical screening results the presence of alkaloids, phenols, terpenoids, cardiac glycosides, tannins, flavonoids, phlobatanins, steroids and quinones. All these pharmacognostic characters can use as diagnostic tools for the correct identification of the plant and which will prevent the adulterations.

Keywords: Areca, microscopy, phytochemistry, ash analysis, traditional medicine.