Authors : G. S. Tandale and M. A. Kare
Page Nos : 63-74
Description :
Morinda citrifolia L. (commonly known as Noni) is a medicinally important plant valued in traditional systems of medicine for its diverse therapeutic activities. The present study was conducted to investigate the morphological, anatomical and phytochemical characteristics Morinda citrifolia L. bark, with special emphasis on maceration-based extraction techniques. The bark samples were collected, authenticated and examined for morphological features including colour, texture, odour and surface characteristics, followed by detailed anatomical analysis through transverse and longitudinal sectioning. Microscopic observations revealed the presence of characteristic tissues such as thick-walled fibres, parenchymatous cortex, and Another stone cells which serve as diagnostic markers for species identification and quality control. Phytochemical profiling of the bark extract was performed using standard qualitative tests. The results confirmed the presence of major bioactive constituents including alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, phenols, saponins, terpenoids and glycosides, indicating strong pharmacological relevance. The maceration technique proved efficient in extracting thermolabile phytochemicals while preserving their integrity. The study provides a comprehensive account of the morphology, internal anatomy and phytochemical constituents of Morinda citrifolia L. bark, contributing valuable data for Pharmacognostic standardization and future drug development. The findings support the ethnomedicinal significance of the plant and highlight its potential for use in herbal formulations.
