PHARMACOGNOSTIC EVALUATION OF EUPHORBIA MILII

Abstract

Objective: Euphorbia milii is a significant ornamental and medicinal plant found in tropical and subtropical regions. It belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae and the genus Euphorbia. This study was designed to explore the pharmacognostic properties of Euphorbia milii.

Materials and Methods: The pharmacognostic evaluations included organoleptic, microscopic, fluorescence and phytochemical screening.  The extraction yield was also studied of n-hexane and methanolic extracts of Euphorbia milii.

Results: Result indicated that methanolic extract of Euphorbia milii has more yield than n-hexane extracts. Powder microscopy showed the presence of scleroids, fibers while phytochemical screening indicated the presence of alkloid, tannins and flavonoids.

 Conclusion: This study provides the scientific data for the proper identification and establishment of standards for the use of leaves and thorns of Euphorbia milii. The phenols and flavonoids detected in the phytochemical analysis might be responsible for medicinal properties of Euphorbia milii.