Morphoanatomical and Histochemical Description of Vegetative Organs and Phytochemical Characterization of Leaf Extracts of Plantago major

Aim of study: This study aims to conduct a morphoanatomical and histochemical analysis of the vegetative organs, as well as a phytochemical assessment of leaf extracts of Plantago major. Area of study: Samples were collected from Muribeca, Municipality of Jaboatão dos Guararapes, Pernambuco, Brazil. Material and method: The macroscopic evaluation was performed using calipers and a stereomicroscope. Cross-sections of the root, stem, petiole, leaf blade, and floral scape, along with paradermal sections of the leaf blade, were prepared and mounted on microscope slides for anatomical analysis. In the histochemical analysis, diverse reagents were applied and all the investigations were carried out employing optical microscopy. Phytochemical tests were conducted on methanolic leaf extracts utilizing thin-layer chromatography. Main results: The microscopic evaluation enabled the anatomical characterization, revealing root featured a hypodermis; leaf blade exhibited layers of angular collenchyma, glandular and non-glandular trichomes; and floral scape exhibited angular collenchyma, sclerenchyma tissue, and non-glandular trichomes. Histochemical and phytochemical tests revealed the presence of different metabolites. Research highlights: These findings hold significance for pharmacobotanical standardization and contribute with morphoanatomical, histochemical, and phytochemical data, thereby enhancing our scientific understanding of the vegetative components within P. major.