Quality control standardization of the leaves and root of Landolphia owariensis (Apocynaceae)

The leaves and roots of Landolphia owariensis have received much attention for their incredible ethnomedicinal uses and are widely commercialized as aphrodisiac, anti-infective and anti-inflammatory agents in West Africa. A systematic evaluation of the leaves and roots was carried out in order to set standards for its identification and quality control. The organoleptic, macro-morphology and micromorphology of whole and powdered leaves and roots were carried out. Physicochemical, phytochemical, fluorescence analysis and preliminary HR-LC/MS analysis were also performed.From organoleptic and macromorphological studies, the leaf was identified to be ovate in shape with an acuminate apex, symmetrical base, entire margin and reticulate venation. Characteristic microscopic features of the leaf lamina, petiole and midrib include the presence of hypostomatic anomocytic stomata, wavy walled epidermal cells, a concentric vascular bundle displaying xylem and phloem cells, unicellular clothing trichomes and secretory cells. Prismatic calcium oxalate crystals, broken stomata, stone cells, pitted vessels, fibers, cork cells and unicellular clothing trichomes are found in the leaf and root powder. Various solvent soluble extractives, ash content, moisture content, pH and fluorescence characteristics were determined. Tannins, saponins, triterpenes and alkaloids were the major phytoconstituents identified. The essential diagnostic attributes of L. owariensis established in this study are useful for the authentication and quality control of the plant.