Macro-Microscopic and HPTLC Atlas of Argyreia sericea Dalzell

Background: Argyreia sericea Dalzell (Convolvulaceae) is a densely hirsute stout climbing shrub found throughout the dry deciduous forests of India. A. sericea is morphologically related to Argyreia nervosa (Burm.f.) Bojer and Argyreia involucrata C.B.Clarke which are used in traditional systems of medicine for treatment of various diseases. As related species look similar in dried form. Objectives: A macro-microscopic and HPTLC study was planned on whole plant parts of A. sericea to analyze key distinguishing characters. Materials and Methods: Standard pharmacopoeial procedures were employed to obtain all the results of the study. Results: Surface characters, odour and taste; transverse section of leaf, stem, root and stomata of epidermal cells, cluster crystal, trichomes, mesophyll tissue, laticiferous content, brownish content, fibres, starch grains, tracheids, fibres tracheids, pitted vessels with scalariform perforation along with pitted, spiral and annular thickening are the unique diagnostic characters observed. Fingerprint profile with unique Rf obtained by HPTLC will aid in correct identification of the species. Conclusion: The findings of the present study will be helpful in identification and differentiation from related species as whole drug or in powder from.