Macro-Microscopic Identification of Dried Flowers of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L. and its Differentiation from Adulterant Rhododendron arboreum Sm.

Background: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Linn. (Fam.Malvaceae) is a small evergreen shrub cultivated in gardens throughout India. The decoction of flowers is used in Indian system of Medicine for bronchial inflammation, urinary astringent and cardio tonic, to promote growth and to prevent graying of hair. The dried flowers of Rhododendron arboreum Sm. (Fam.Ericaceae) are morphologically looking similar to Hibiscus rosa-sinensis and used as adulterant in the market. Hence, the morphological, Micro-morphological and powder microscopical studies on dried flowers of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis and Rhododendron arboreum was carried out and reported. Objective: To identify the dried flowers of Hisbiscus rosa-sinensis macro-microscopically and to differentiate it from adulterant Rhododendron arboreum. Methods: The morphology and powder microscopy were observed following standard methods and photographed. Results: The colour, taste, arrangement and appearance of calyx, corolla and stamen, trichomes, calcium oxalate crystals, sclereids, oil globules and pollen grains are found to be differentiating diagnostic characters in raw drug/powdered form of dried flowers of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis and Rhododendron arboreum. Conclusion: The finding of present study is helpful in standardization of formulation consists of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis as ingredient in their powdered form and also for authentication/identification of dried flowers of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis.