Pharmacognostic characterization and phytochemical evaluation of Curculigo capitulata (Lour.) Kuntze leaves

This study aimed to determine the pharmacognostic markers through comprehensive pharmacognostic, physicochemical and phytochemical evaluations, including chemical profiling by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and allelochemicals analysis of the leaves. Organoleptic examination revealed fibrous, lanceolate leaves with a slightly bitter and astringent taste and a mild earthy odour. Macroscopically, the fresh leaves measured 30-60 × 10-15 cm and were ribbed and glabrous. Microscopically, transverse sections exhibited dorsiventral symmetry, a cuticularized upper and lower epidermis, distinct palisade and spongy parenchyma and a collateral vascular bundle encased in a parenchymatous bundle sheath. Microscopic examination of the leaf epidermis exhibited a paracytic stomatal arrangement, characteristic of the species. The stomatal index was recorded as 14.27 % on the adaxial surface and 19.32?% on the abaxial surface. The determined physicochemical parameters, total ash (8.3?%), acid-insoluble ash (1.0 %), water-soluble ash (2.5?%) and moisture content (6.8?%). All values were expressed on an air-dried basis and demonstrated consistent and reliable pharmacognostic markers, indicative of the plant’s authenticity and phytochemical integrity. Fluorescence analysis under UV and visible light revealed distinctive colour responses, aiding in the authentication of crude drugs. Phytochemical screening of leaf extracts revealed the presence of bioactive metabolites including flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, and phenolics. The methanolic extract exhibited a yield of 15 % w/w. Furthermore, GC-MS analysis of the methanolic extract identified multiple phytoconstituents, thereby, providing a chemical rationale for its observed biological activities. These findings establish comprehensive pharmacognostic and phytochemical profiles essential for the authentication, standardization and future phytopharmacological investigations of C.capitulata (Lour.) Kuntze.