Abstract:
Background: Polygala senega L. is a small perennial herb belonging to the family Polygalaceae. The roots are used as stimulant and
expectorant in bronchitis. In Homoeopathy, it is used for hypopyon, paresis of oculomotor nerve, catarrh of pharynx, sore throat, catarrh of
bladder, influenza, asthma, whooping cough, soreness in chest, pleurisy, pneumonia, hydrothorax, pleuropneumonia, pneumonia, hydrothorax
and ascites. Objective: The objective of the present study deals with morpho‑anatomical, powder and physicochemical characteristics of the
root of P. senega for developing standards for authentication of drug. Materials and Methods: The current study includes morpho‑anatomical,
powder and physicochemical studies of the root of P. senega. Physicochemical studies comprise extractive values, ash values, chemical tests,
weight/millilitre, total solids, alcohol content and loss on drying. Results: The root are yellowish brown to light brown and has as its unique
mark a projecting line on its down side. The distinguishing microscopic characteristics of the root included the presence of multilayered
phellem, abundant phelloderm interrupted by tracheary elements, acicular crystals, abnormal development of phloem and V‑shaped medullary
rays. Physicochemical studies of the raw drug and mother tincture are standardised and depicted. Conclusion: The pharmacognostic and
physicochemical data depicted in this study may serve as pharmacopoeial standards for identification and authentication of the homoeopathic
drug P. senega.
