Pharmacognostic Studies of Aerial Part of Methanolic Extract of Vernonia patula

The aerial part of Vernonia patula (family: Asteraceae) was studied to fix the parameters for pharmacognostical standards. The results of organoleptic study offer a scientific basis for the use of Vernonia patula which possess characters like green colour, characteristic odour, mucilaginous and slightly bitter taste. The fluorescence analysis under visible UV light and under UV light by treatment with different chemical reagents showed different colour changes. These created an interest to test the possible phytochemical activity of the plant. In the screening process of Vernonia patula indicate the presence of Reducing sugars, Steroids, Alkaloids, Glycosides, Tannins, and Gums. The Pharmacognostic study was performed by using standard procedure. Further, detailed studies are needed to know whether in-vivo administration of the extracts is beneficial for patients.