Pharmacognosy

Recognizing the profound need for a standard text in pharmacognosy presented in an accessible manner, this book emerges as a vital resource for both educators and learners in the field of botany. The inspiration behind its creation stems from my extensive teaching experience spanning over three decades, which has fueled a commitment to demystify complex concepts for students. This text meticulously covers the classification, preparation, and storage of crude drugs, highlighting phytoconstituents with therapeutic significance through illustrative examples. It delves into critical issues such as drug adulteration, evaluation methods, systematic analysis of powdered drugs, as well as the study of different fibres, sutures, and surgical dressings. Furthermore, it explores pharmaceutical products derived from plant and animal origins.

Each chapter is thoughtfully complemented with a variety of questions designed to reinforce learning and encourage deep engagement with the material. The book places a strong emphasis on histochemical tests for the precise identification of phytoconstituents and the gross anatomical features that are increasingly important in research settings. A comprehensive glossary of technical terms related to pharmacognosy is included for quick reference.

Striving to be as informative as possible, this book presents detailed insights into medicinal plants used as drugs, articulated in straightforward language and supported by appropriate illustrations. It is intended to fulfill the educational requirements of students and act as a superior reference tool for faculty members, undergraduates, postgraduates, and research scholars across Indian universities and others with similar interests.