Pharmacognostic evaluation of the leaves of Azanza garckeana (F. Hoffm.) Exell et Hillc. (Malvaceae)

Plants have been used as medicines from ancient periods. During the past decades, traditional systems of medicine have become a topic of global importance. Azanza garckeana (F. Hoffm.) Exell et Hillc. belongs to Malvaceae family. In Nigeria, Azanza garckeana is found abundantly in Tula, a town in Kaltungo Local Government Area, Gombe State. Ethno-medical uses of the leaf, stem, root decoction or ripe fruits of A. garckeana are taken orally as remedy for infertility, cough and liver problems in Botswana, Kenya, Malawi, and Nigeria. In the present investigation, detailed pharmacognostic study of Azanza garckeana leaf is carried out to lay down the standards, which could be useful in future experimental studies. The study includes macroscopy, microscopy, chemomicroscopy and physicochemical evaluation. These parameters are used as a diagnostic tool in the identification and standardization of the plant Azanza garckeana and also to establish the quality and purity of this valuable drug. It can also be added as enrichment of the pharmacopoeia of the plant.Keywords: Pharmacognostic evaluation; Leaves, Azanza garckeana