Genetic barcoding and botanical studies on pothos scandens l. leaves-an extra-pharmacopoeial drug of ayurveda

Objective: This study was undertaken to carry out genetic barcoding, pharmacognostical and phytochemical studies on leaves of Pothos scandens L. belonging to the family Araceae. Methods: P. scandens, was collected from Cochin, Kerala, during the month of August 2019. Its leaves were examined for pharmacognostical characters and physicochemical, qualitative analysis and HPTLC studies was carried out following standard protocols recommended by the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Genetic barcoding of the fresh tender leaves samples was carried out through following standard methods. Results: Leaves are simple, alternate, broadly winged petiole. Transverse section through winged petiole portion showed U-shaped, epidermal cell along with cluster crystals. Transverse section through midrib boat-shaped structure, mesophyll undifferentiated, consist parenchyma cell, epidermis with thick cuticle along with waxy coating. Leaves powder shows green in color and microscopy reveals the presence of prismatic crystals, raphides, fibres, acicular crystals and monocot type 1 stomata. The plant is identified as Pothos scandens based on sequence homology and phylogenic analysis. Qualitative results show the presence of carbohydrates, protein, alkaloids and tannins. HPTLC profile shows 7 spots at both short UV and long UV and ferulic acid and kaempferol were identified through quantitative HPTLC. Conclusion: Pothos scandens is a climber with simple, alternate leaves. Acicular crystals and raphides, mucilaginous cavities, undifferentiated mesophyll are key characters of the identification of its leaf. DNA Barcoding results helps in correct identification of Pothos scandens. The results obtained from the phytochemical study will be helpful in the determination of the strength of purity and also for further standardization of the plant.