A Comparative Pharmacognostical Study of Wild and Cultivate Amalaki (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.)

Abstract

Background: Amalaki is traditionally used drug in Ayurveda. Fruits of Amalaki is useful for cure of many disorders. On the basis of Desha Bheda (Habitat) two types of Amalaki are available viz., Gramya Phala (Cultivated) and Vanya Phala (Wild). cultivated variety is more often used as it offers gain to the manufacturers in terms of the amount of pulp available. To differentiate wild and cultivated variety through macroscopic, microscopic and powder microscopy this study was carried out. Objective: Present study was aimed to record comparative macroscopic, microscopic and powder microscopy of wild and cultivated varieties of Indian gooseberry. Methods: Authenticated matured fruits of both varieties were collected and macroscopic and microscopic characters were documented. Result: Fruit of wild variety is smaller and strong astringent than cultivated. In transverse section wild variety shows thick cuticle, lesser engaged area of mesocarp, compactly arranged cells and more concentration of fibres, sclereids and silica crystals than cultivated. Conclusion: Fruit of both varieties differ in size, colour and taste. In transverse section both varieties have same cells with some differentiating characters.