Pharmacognostic Analysis of Fennel, Caraway and Coriander Seeds belong to Apiaceae family

Introduction: Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), caraway (Carum carvi), and coriander (Coriandrum sativum) belong to the same botanical family, Apiaceae, but they have different macroscopic and microscopic features that distinguish them. Aim: The purpose of this work is to minutely study and analyze the characteristics of fennel, caraway, and coriander seeds, along with their microscopic & powder character. Material and Methods: Seeds of fennel, caraway, and coriander were collected from the Wardha region market, authenticated by a botanist, and were analyzed macroscopically for size, shape, color, odor, and taste. The microscopic analysis was done with the cross-sections of seeds stained with suitable reagents. Powdered microscopy included powder of each drug with glycerine to see the structures. Results: Microscopic and powdered microscopic examination revealed distinct anatomical features such as oil cells, parenchyma cells, and vascular bundles, etc., that were characteristic to each seed. Conclusion: This study had an in-depth comparative analysis of the macroscopic, microscopic, and powdered microscopic characteristics of fennel, caraway, and coriander seeds.