Importance of Morphological and Anatomical Studies in Identification of Crude Drugs

Background: The present review discusses the need and emphasizes the importance of morphological and anatomical studies in identification of crude drugs. This study is important and lays down parameters for standardization and authentication of medicinal plants with the help of which adulteration and substitution can be prevented.

Methods: All the parameters to be evaluated in morphological and anatomical studies such as shape and size, colour, odour, taste, external markings, palisade ratio, stomatal number, stomatal Index, types of stomata, vein islet number are enlisted along with their importance. Now-a-days there is a renewed interest in drugs of natural origin because they are presumed to be safe. The more effective the natural drug more is its demand and the chances of nonavailability increases. To meet the growing demand, the natural drug is adulterated with low grade material.

Results and Conclusion: Therapeutic efficacy of medicinal plants depends upon the quality and quantity of chemical constituents. The misuse of herbal medicine or natural products starts with wrong identification. Morphological and Anatomical studies include parameters which help in identifying adulteration in a drug even if it loses its morphological identity. It ensures plant identity, lays down standardization parameters which will help to prevent adulteration. Such studies will help in authentication of the plants and ensures quality of herbal products which will lead to safety and efficacy of natural products.