Identity and pharmacognosy of Ruta graveolens Linn
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Identity and pharmacognosy of Ruta graveolens Linn
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Original source:
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R. Kannan, U. V. Babu
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Identity and pharmacognosy of Ruta graveolens Linn
Year: 2012
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Ruta graveolens L., commonly known as Rue, is an aromatic herb belonging to the Rutaceae family, primarily recognized for its medicinal and ornamental properties. It holds historical significance, valued by ancient Greeks and Romans and extensively utilized in traditional systems of medicine, such as Ayurveda, Homeopathy, and Unani. Despite the vast number of phytochemical constituents identified within the genus Ruta, including alkaloids and essential oils, a notable concern remains regarding the accurate identification and differentiation of species within the genus, particularly R. graveolens and R. chalepensis. This complexity arises from overlapping morphological and anatomical characteristics that challenge proper classification and authentic usage, particularly in the Indian herbal market.
Misidentification Issues
The prevalent confusion between R. graveolens and R. chalepensis highlights significant challenges faced in herbal identification and quality control. Both species exhibit distinct yet overlapping morphological traits, such as petals that are either fringed or smooth, leading to frequent misidentifications in medicinal preparations. The study reveals critical discrepancies in the characterization of pericyclic fibers between the two species, where R. graveolens displays wider-lumen fibers compared to the narrow-lumen fibers of R. chalepensis. Furthermore, discrepancies in pharmacognostic reports previously published indicate that researchers may have incorrectly attributed characteristics of R. chalepensis to R. graveolens, complicating the understanding of their authentic medicinal properties. Such misidentifications can pose serious risks in the context of herbal medicine, emphasizing the need for enhanced taxonomic clarity and accurate testing methods.
Conclusion
The differentiation between R. graveolens and R. chalepensis is crucial for ensuring the authenticity of herbal products and preventing adulteration in traditional medicine markets. The inconsistencies in previously published pharmacognostic characteristics reveal a pressing need for critical review and re-evaluation of botanical identifications in the herbal trade, particularly in regions where both species co-occur. Furthermore, the incorporation of advanced methods such as DNA fingerprinting could prove beneficial in establishing precise species identification in powdered forms and bulk samples. As confusion continues regarding these species, fostering rigorous standards and education among suppliers and practitioners remains essential for upholding the integrity of herbal medicine.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Ruta graveolens and its significance?
Ruta graveolens, commonly known as Rue, is an odoriferous herb from the Rutaceae family. It's valued for both medicinal and ornamental purposes and features in traditional practices like Ayurveda and Homoeopathy.
How can one differentiate Ruta graveolens from Ruta chalepensis?
Ruta graveolens can be identified by its non-fringed petals and blunted fruit lobe tips. In contrast, Ruta chalepensis has fringed or ciliated petals with sharp pointed fruit lobes.
What are the pharmacognostic characteristics of Ruta graveolens?
Pharmacognostic studies reveal distinct microscopic features in Ruta graveolens, such as wide-lumen pericyclic fibers and the absence of glandular trichomes, helping to differentiate it from similar species.
What issues arise regarding the identification of Ruta graveolens?
Confusion often occurs due to overlapping morphological traits between Ruta graveolens and Ruta chalepensis, leading to misidentification in herbal markets. This issue emphasizes the necessity of accurate taxonomic keys.
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