Seed surface characteristics and preliminary phytochemical analysis of Moringa oleifera Lam. seed of family Moringaceae.

  • Unique Paper ID: 175822
  • Volume: 11
  • Issue: 11
  • PageNo: 3915-3919
  • Abstract:
  • In folk herbalism the Moringa oleifera Lam.is a multipurpose tree. Medicinally it is very important and useful. Moringa oleifera Lam.is also known as ‘miracle tree’ or ‘drumstick’. The plant is highly medicinal and nutritional value. It contains highly antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It shows several health benefits also. Moringa seeds are ediable, oil extracted for cosmetics, biodiesel production, water purification, lubricants, fertilizer etc. The SEM investigation i.e. Scanning electron microscopy play a very important role in differentiating and identification of micromorphological characters of seeds. Seed shows intricate, thick, fibrous reticulation with deep grooves present. Seed coat anatomy clears the internal cellular structure of seed. Seed coat anatomy shows epidermis, subepidermis, exotesta, endotesta and fibrous cells with cotyledon. The morphological and anatomical investigation helps for study of structural features and identification of various taxa. The preliminary phytochemical analysis of Moringa oleifera Lam. seed detect the various chemical compositions present in it. The phytochemical like alkaloids, protein, amino acids, terpenoids present in both the extract ethanol and water respectively. Tannins and starch absent in both extracts. Presence of different phytochemicals in seeds are important for preparation of various types of drugs. All the above observations are essential for seed identification and useful in solving taxonomic problems.

Related Articles