Pharmacognostic and phytochemical investigations of Dioscoreabulbifera L

Abstract

Dioscorea bulbiferea L. syn: Yam. (Family – Dioscoreaceae) is found commonly in India. Recent pharmacological
findings indicate that it tubers possess significant activities like -purgative, deflatulent, aphrodisiac, rejuvenating and
tonic, anthelmintic and is used in haematological disorders, scrofula, syphilis, haemorrhoids, flatulence, diarrhoea,
dysentery, worm infestations, general debility, diabetic disorders, polyuric and skin disorders which comply with the
claims made in the traditional medicinal texts. However, no conclusive pharmacognositc study of its tubers has been
performed yet. The present investigation deals with the qualitative and quantitative microscopic evaluation of the
tubers and establishment of the quality parameters including physiochemical and phytochemical evaluation. Chief
microscopic character includes periderm, ground tissue, vascular bundle, exomorphic features of bulb and triangular
starch grains. Such a study would serve as a useful gauge standardization of tubers material and ensuring the quality
formulations.