Micromorphology and leaf anatomy of two species of Justicia L. (Acanthaceae) that have medicinal use

Abstract

In Brazil two species of genus Justicia L. are used for medicinal proposes: J. pectoralis Jacq., from Tropical America and J. gendarussa Burm. f., from Asia, both are known as “anador”, according to the popular saying. The present study aimed to describe the leaf surface micromorphology and leafanatomy of both species to define useful structures for delimitation by distinct microscopic techniques. Adult leaves were used for studies by microscopy of light and scanning electronic microscopy. The use of microscopy of light reveals differences in margin cell disposition; the technique also pointed the glandular trichome type and midrib, mesophyll and petiole tissues type and number of cell layers. By scanning electronic microscopy one can observe epicuticular waxes characteristics and eglandular trichomes distribution and ornamentation pattern. Thus, the various techniques contribute to a more accurate description of these species of medicinal interest.