The Evaluation of Macro- and Microscopic Features of the Rhizome of Phlomoides Tuberosa (Phlomis tuberosa L.)

Introduction. Phlomoides tuberosa (Phlomis tuberosa), is a perennial herbaceous plant of the Lamiaceae family. It is widely distributed in the temperate climate of the European part of Russia, as well as in Europe and Asia. The herb and roots of Phlomoides tuberosa are widely used in traditional medicine as an anti-inflammatory, tonic, restorative, wound healing agents, as well as a hepatoprotective and antispasmodic remedies. Infusions and decoctions are used for the treatment of otitis, bronchitis, and other respiratory diseases. It is an understudied plant and is not included in the pharmacopoeia. Objective. To establish the characteristic macroscopic and microscopic features of the Phlomoides tuberosa plant and to qualitatively determine the content of fatty and essential oils by staining the root with «Sudan III». Materials and Methods. Collection and herbarization of the herb in the territory of the «I.I. Sprygin Zhiguli State Nature Biosphere Reserve » on 05.07.2023. Habitat: gentle slope. Preparation of micro-preparations according to the State Pharmacopoeia XIV. Staining of plant root preparations was carried out with Sudan III. Microscopic examination was performed using an inverted microscope. Results. As a result of the study, the external features of the plant were described and characteristic micro-signs of individual parts of the raw material were identified. The epidermis of the leaf includes stomata of the anomocytic type. Trichomes of various types are marked on the upper part of the epidermis: simple unicellular and bicellular, with a unicellular head. The lower epidermis additionally features jointed trichomes. Microscopy of the cross section of the root and stem was performed, and xylem vessels were isolated. During staining with Sudan III, drops of essential and fatty oil were detected in the root. Inclusions are marked on the surface of the epidermis of the root. Microscopy of the flower revealed trichomes: multicellular, with a unicellular head and stellate. Conclusions. The established microscopic and macroscopic characteristics of the structure of the root, stem, flowers, and leaves of Phlomoides tuberosa can be used for further determination of the authenticity of the plant in order to distinguish it from other related representatives having similar anatomical-diagnostic features. The widespread distribution of the plant and the high content of pharmacologically active compounds justify further research for potential medical applications.