Phamacognostical investigationof cassia didymobtrya fres occurring occurring naturally in Kenya

Abstract

The aim of this work was to determine the total anthraquinone glycosides present in the leaves of the natural~y occurring Cassia didymobotrya Fres., and to study the basic pharmacognostic features (microsr.opic and chromatographic). Senna, a drug from the same genus, was used as a basis for reference. The results obtained indicate that- the 'plant contains anthraquinone glycosides, acc~unting For the reported purgative action. The total anthraquinone content calculated as sennoside B in the dried plant material (leaf) was found to be 2.1%. Thin layer chromatography revealed that three of the ~nthraquinones present in Cassia didymobotrya Fres. did not occur in detectable quantities in prepared senna, and that the two main anthraquinones detected in senna, (Cassia angustifolia, Cassia aculifolia), aloe-amodin and rhein, ~ere also present in Cassia didymobotrY,1 although in lower quantities. 'The plant is a po~sible source of purgative drug.