Microscopic Evaluation of Leaves of Memecylon umbellatum Burm

Objective. Aim of present work is to perform the microscopic evaluation and physicochemical analysis and to explore the morphology parameters of Memecylon umbellatum Burm leaves. Methods. Fresh, dried and desiccated powdered leaf samples were studied for their morphology, microscopy, organoleptic characters, and an assortment of other WHO recommended methods for standardisation. Results. The microscopy revealed the dorsiventral nature of the leaf. Midrib showed presence of nonlignified phloem, lignified xylem with well-defined xylem fibers, vessels, and parenchyma. Presence of Phloecentric vascular bundles surrounded by endodermis and crystal sheath. Well-defined patches of collenchyma were observed above and below the vascular bundles in the midrib area. Trichomes are mostly absent and stomata (anomocytic) were observed on both epidermal surfaces. Conclusions. It can be concluded that the microscopic analysis and pharmacognostic parameters can serve as tool for developing standards for proper authentication, quality, and purity of Memecylon umbellatum Burm leaves. 1. Introduction Memecylon umbellatum Burm (family: Melastomataceae) is a small evergreen shrub or tree which grows up to 8–14？m tall having young tree branches and bears numerous umbellate cymes. The plant is known as “Anjani” in Sanskrit, Anakkayavu in Malayalam, and “Ironwood tree” in English. It is distributed mostly in coastal regions of the Deccan peninsula, the eastern and southern part of India all along the Western Ghats and in the Andaman islands [1, 2]. It is also found distributed in Orissa, Assam, Sylhet, Tenasserim, Ceylon, Malay, Peninsula-Malay, and Archipelago [3]. Different extracts of Memecylon umbellatum Burm Inflorescences [4] and bark [5] have been evaluated for its antimicrobial potential. Estimation of total content of tannin [6] and seasonal variation of tannin content in different parts has also been carried out [7]. Estimation of sugars and minerals in healthy and infected parts has also been carried out [8]. Different root extract have been reported to possess antioxidant activity [9], while leaves of Memecylon umbellatum have also been evaluated for their antimicrobial activity [10]. Use of leaves was also reported in snakebite [11]. The seeds are used to cure cough and sedative [12]. The leaf powder has antidiabetic potential [13]. Leaves are used to treat eye troubles, gonorrhea, leucorrhea, wounds [14], and skin diseases [15]. It also has an antioxidant property [16]. The leaves are reported to possess antiviral activity [17–19]. Wound healing activity of