Pharmacognostic and phytochemical evaluation of Capparis cartilaginea Decne., leaf: A medicinal plant

Capparis cartilaginea Decne., a member of the Capparidaceae family, is used in traditional medicine to treat various diseases.However, limited pharmacogenetic and phytochemical studies on its leaves exist.This study aims to perform preliminary phytochemical screening, Pharmacognostic, and physicochemical investigations of Capparis cartilaginea leaves.Macroscopy, qualitative and quantitative microscopy of leaves, qualitative phytochemical screening and physicochemical analysis were conducted.Macroscopic analysis showed that the leaves are simple, ovate to elliptic with a retuse apex, hooked spines, and a pubescent surface, changing from dark green to glaucous upon drying.Microscopic examination revealed a stomatal index of 10.90 1.0 for the upper epidermis and 6.01 0.7 for the lower epidermis, with anomocytic stomata.Anatomically, the leaves have a single layered epidermis, palisade parenchyma, and well-developed vascular tissues.The methanol and chloroform extractive values were 5.11% and 5.5%, respectively.The moisture content was 5.065%, and the total ash value was 63.57%, indicating good stability and potential need for purification.Phytochemical screening detected alkaloids, glycosides, phenolics, carbohydrates, amino acids, and proteins in the methanol extract, while glycosides were present in the chloroform extract.Fluorescence analysis revealed multiple phytochemicals, supporting the plant's authenticity.These findings confirm Capparis cartilaginea leaves as a valuable resource for Pharmacognostic research and potential therapeutic applications.