ISSN 2169-303X
International Journal of Medicinal Plants Research ISSN : 2169-303X Vol. 2 (2), pp. 204-208, July, 2013. © International Scholars Journals
Full Length Research Paper
Anatomical, phytochemical and pharmacological studies of roots of Cnicus benedictus L.
Chabane Djamila1, Assani Akym2, Mouhoub Faiza1, Bourakba Chahinez1, Nazeli Nacer-bey3.
1Research Laboratory on Arid Zones (L.R.Z.A), Faculty of Biology , University of Sciences and Technology (USTHB), Bab Ezzouar, Algiers 16111, Algeria.
2Cargill Guelph Department of Quality Control 165 Dunlop Dr, Guelph, ON N1L 1P4.
3Research and Development Center CRD Saidal. Algiers, Algeria
*Corresponding author. E-mail: [email protected].
Accepted 25 April, 2013
Abstract
Cnicus benedictus L., named Blessed thistle, is a medicinal endemic plant in Algeria, well known by locals as the "march grass" for its effectiveness against burns and wounds. This study aims to provide information on the anatomical properties of the roots, their capacity of chemical compounds in relationship with reduction of burned area. Anatomical studies include cross sections of the roots. Phytochemical screening methods were applied to identify the major chemical compounds in this species. In addition, pharmacological tests were performed on the rats by measuring the diameter of wound healing skin after application of the root extract in comparison with commercial healing ointment “Baneocin”.
Key words: Cnicus benedictus L., anatomical study, phytochemical screening, pharmacological analysis, wound healing.