The Journal of Phytopharmacology 2024; 13(4):314-320 DOI:10.31254/phyto.2024.13407

Research Article

Pharmacognostic, physicochemical and phytochemical profiles of Euclea divinorum (Ebenaceae)

Zacchaeus Kipkorir Rotich^1,2,3 , James Mucunu Mbaria¹ , Isaac Ole Mapanay¹

Zacchaeus Kipkorir Rotich,James Mucunu Mbaria,Isaac Ole Mapanay

1. Department of Public Health, Pharmacology, and Toxicology, College of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Nairobi, P.O. Box 29053 - 00625, Nairobi, Kenya
2. Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, School of Science and Aerospace Studies, Moi University, P.O. Box 3900- 30100, Eldoret, Kenya
3. Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Kabarak University, Private bag- Nakuru, Kenya

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

Received: 9th May, 2024 / Accepted: 25th July, 2024 / Published : 31st August, 2024

Abstract

Background: Euclea divinorum, belonging to the family Ebeneceae, has extensive traditional medicinal use in Africa. However, it lacks sufficient published data on its pharmacognostic, physicochemical, and phytochemical properties. Aims and Objectives: Thus, this study aimed at comprehensively evaluating the pharmacognostic, physicochemical, and phytochemical properties of E. divinorum using established techniques. Materials and Methods: The evaluation included assessing organoleptic properties, macroscopy, and microscopy of leaves, stems, and roots. Various physicochemical parameters, such as loss on drying and extractive values via hot and cold maceration, were determined. Phytochemical screening was also conducted on root aqueous extracts. Results and Conclusion: Results revealed specific characteristics of E. divinorum leaves, including light green coloration, distinct odor, and bitterness. Macroscopic examination highlighted opposite phyllotaxy, simple leaf types with lamina length range of 71.09 - 93.89 mm and a width range of 6.05 - 17.59 mm, obtuse leaf apexes, cuneate leaf bases, entire leaf margins, and smooth leaf surfaces. Venation displayed a reticulate pattern, with the midrib prominently visible on the lower surface. Microscopic analysis of the lower leaf epidermis showed an average of stomatal density of 3.75±0.67, epidermal density of 35.75±2.16 and stomatal index of 10.47±1.11. Microscopic examination of the leaf lamina across the midrib revealed cortical parenchymal cells containing calcium oxalate crystals, lignified xylem, and non-lignified phloem. Stem cross-sections displayed single-layered cells comprising the epidermis, secondary phloem, secondary xylem, and pith. Similar structures were observed in root cross-sections. The plant's moisture content was found to be 44.8±1.962%, with water and alcohol-soluble extractive values of 7.27±0.17 and 1.13±0.05 g/100g, respectively, through cold maceration, and 14.77±0.28 and 11.43±0.39 g/100g, respectively through hot maceration. The total ash content was measured at 3.03± 0.103%. Phytochemical screening detected various compounds, with anthraquinone glycosides, coumarine glycosides, saponin glycosides, flavonoids, proteins, and tannins being abundant. Alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, and steroids were absent. This research contributes to standardizing E. divinorum, aiding in its identification, preventing adulteration, and ensuring therapeutic efficacy.