The current research focuses on the anatomical and pharmacognostic profiles of the leaves and stem of Senna sophera (L.) Roxb., belonging to the family Fabaceae (subfamily Caesalpinioideae). This plant is a widely distributed shrub found in tropical and subtropical regions, especially across Asia and Africa. In India, especially in West Bengal, this plant is found on roadsides and in wasteland areas. Traditionally, the leaf and stem of this plant have been used for treating health conditions such as cough, fever, rheumatism, and skin diseases. The leaf micromorphology study shows the wavy outline of epidermal cell walls with irregularly shaped cells on both the adaxial and abaxial surfaces. Notably, the epidermal cells on the adaxial surface (35.1±1.2μm x 29.31±1.1μm) were larger than those on the abaxial surface (28.13±1.2μm x 12.9±1.1μm). Paracytic stomata were present on both surfaces of the leaf. The stomatal index values were 16±1.4 and 21±1.8 on the upper and lower surfaces, respectively. Unicellular non-glandular trichomes were observed in both stem and leaves. The trichome index of the upper epidermis was 2.31. The moisture content and total Ash value of leaves were estimated to be 10.66% and 6.64%, respectively. Microchemical tests confirmed the presence of alkaloids, steroids, saponins and flavonoids. Most of these findings could provide the scientific criteria for correct identification and establishment of the standard of both drug parts of this plant. Additional research is necessary to evaluate the potential of phenolic compounds as an alternative to pharmacological treatments.

Keywords:Senna sophera L; Foliar micromorphology; anatomy; xylem element; microchemical study.