Morpho-Anatomical and Phytochemical Studies on Corchorus capsularis (L)

Abstract:

Objective: A study of the morphological and molecular characteristics of the Corchorus capsularis L (Tiliaceae) Tossa jute, also known as “Nalta jute,” is an important crop in India that is used to make fibre. The leaves of this plant are consumed for their demulcent, diuretic, lactagogue, purgative, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Methods: In this study, the morphoanatomical, (organoleptic, macroscopic, and microscopic), and phytochemical profiles of C. capsularis leaves were evaluated. In addition, other WHO-recommended techniques were utilised to ensure the consistency of the results.
Results: This is the first known description of the morphoanatomical characteristics of the leaves of the C. capsularis plant, which include a serrated margin, stipules at the base of the leaf, and an acute to acuminate apex. The epidermal cell frequency (ECF) was determined to be 5200 per square millimetre for polygonal anisodiametric to linear epidermal cells with 5-7 sides and polygonal anisometry. It was discovered that costal cells have 5 or 6 sides, a striated surface, mildly dense contents, and frequently contain calcium oxalate crystals. Microscopical examination of the leaf surface revealed that the epidermal cells were polygonal and anisodiametric to linear. The leaves are amphistomatic, indicating that they possess both anisocytic and anomocytic stomata, as well as uniseriate clavate filaments. The transverse section of a leaf reveals an oval midvein, as well as a faint ridge on the adaxial side and discernible ribs on the abaxial side. In addition, the secondary veins have a ribbed surface on the abaxial side and a grooved surface on the adaxial side, as well as abundant uniseriate filiform clavate hairs. Mesophyll is broken down by a limited number of sphaerocystalliferous idioblasts and mucilaginous cells. There is an arcuate bundle of vascular tissue in the middle, and a palisade on both extremities. The phytochemicals were extracted using a Soxhlet apparatus following a continuous and heated extraction. Alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, polysaccharides, proteins, saponins, glycosides, terpenoids, phenols, steroids, coumarins, cardiac glycosides, and phytosterols are examples of phytochemicals. Phytochemicals such as phenols, steroids, and cardiac glycosides are also present.
Conclusions: The study results can be used as a reference and as benchmarks for identifying this plant material in future research and applications, as well as for quantifying and isolating the chemical compounds responsible for the pharmacologically active properties of the plant.