MicroscopicEvaluation of Leaf of Balanites Aegyptiaca (L.)Delile: A Review Article

Abstract

Introduction:Leaves of Balanites aegyptiaca(L.) Delileare commonly used for diabetes. Literature survey revealed that notmuch work has been done on this plant, especially on leaves. So detailed microscopical study was done for its identification. Methods: Transversesection and powder microscopy wascarriedoutonleavesofBalanitesaegyptiaca(L.)Delile.Result: Microscopical study showed dorsiventaral midrib and smooth, even and thick lamina. Thelamina was isolateraland 350 μm thick. The marginal part of the laminawas bluntly conical measuring 200 μm thick. Calcium oxalate crystals wereabundant in the mesophyll tissue. The crystals were druses and rosettetypes.Theveinsformedwell definedvein-islets ofpolygonal outline. The vein terminations were well developed and thick, short and straight. At the end of the veinterminationoccurredaclusterofsquarish,thickwalledwidesclereids.Theleafwasamphistomatic, However, the stomata on the abaxial side were more in frequency than on theadaxial side. The abaxial epidermal cells were small, polygonal and fairly thick walled. Theanticlinal walls were straight. The trichomes were unicellular, unbranched and thick walled.Crystal bodies were wide spread in the powder. The crystals were exclusively druses, which werespherical bodies comprising manypointed triangular small crystal units. Analysis and Discussion:The present researchprovided useful information in regard to its correct identity, evaluation and helped to differentiate from thecloselyrelated otherspecies ofBalanites aegyptiaca(L.)Delile. Hence, it furnished the data for future standardization of the drug.