Pharmacognostic and physicochemical studies of dried leaves of Ficus stuhlmannii Warb. (Moraceae)
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Ficus stuhlmannii Warb., a medicinal plant traditionally used by Congolese populations, is recognized for its therapeutically active phytochemical constituents. The present study aimed to evaluate the pharmacognostic and physicochemical characteristics of its leaf powder. Microscopic examination revealed important diagnostic elements, including stomata, epidermal cells, sclereids, starch granules, and unicellular trichomes. The powder demonstrated acceptable stability and met pharmacopoeial quality standards, particularly with a moisture content below 10%, in line with the European Pharmacopoeia. These results enrich the pharmacognostic profile of F. stuhlmannii and provide a scientific basis for its identification, standardization, quality control, and conservation. The moisture content of F. stuhlmannii Warb. leaf powder was determined to be 8.64 ± 0.2%, a level considered favorable for limiting oxidation, fermentation, and mould growth during storage. The total ash, sulphated ash, and acid-insoluble ash contents were 14.23 ± 0.05%, 19.05 ± 0.5%, and 1.25 ± 0.09%, respectively. The relatively low acid-insoluble ash value suggests minimal contamination by extraneous siliceous matter. These findings provide essential reference data for the pharmacognostic standardization of F. stuhlmannii Warb. and support the development of a comprehensive monograph, thereby contributing to its correct identification, assessment of authenticity, and assurance of therapeutic quality. Key words: Ficus stuhlmannii Warb., physicochemical characterization, quality control; standardization.
DOI: 10.5897/jpp2025.0653
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7162007369