Morpho-anatomical investigations on Momordica charantia L. (Cucurbitaceae)

Abstract

Momordica charantia L. (Cucurbitaceae) used for some medicinal purposes like antidiabetic, anticancer, antiviral and treat to gastritis was investigated. Morphological studies were supported by morphometric measurements and drawings of male and female flowers, fruit and seeds of the species. In anatomical studies, cross sections of stem and leaf, upper and lower surface sections of leaves were evaluated. It was detected that the stem with typical anatomical properties of a climbing dicotyl plant. The leaves were amphistotamic and with lots of cyctoliths on the lower surface of leaves. Stomata are anomocytic and situated much more at the lower surface of leaves.  Morpho-anatomical investigations on Momordica charantia L. (Cucurbitaceae)*