Microscopic and Phytochemical Comparison of the Three Leonurus Species L. cardiaca, L. japonicus, and L. sibiricus ^[*]

Abstract

At least three Leonurus species, Leonurus cardiaca, Leonurus japonicus, and Leonurus sibiricus, are used in various traditional medicinal systems for different therapeutic purposes. The plant names “L. sibiricus” and “L. japonicus” are often used as synonyms, which causes confusion in literature and implies that several studies may be based on improperly identified plant material. To avoid further confusion, the current status of the identification of these three species is illustrated. Characteristics for their unequivocal identification are presented using stereo and light microscopy as well as HPTLC.

The establishment of the species-specific anatomical, morphological, and phytochemical characters was based on reference specimens in comparison with wild collected or commercially obtained material. Morphologically, the species differed in shape and length ratio of the upper and lower lip of the corolla. Differentiating anatomical characters involve the presence, density, and dimension of trichomes on different organs. Detailed anatomical descriptions of the leaves and corollae of L. japonicus and L. sibiricus are given and compared to L. cardiaca. These three sets of characters facilitate fast and reliable identification. Complementary HPTLC fingerprints show type-specific patterns that allow the differentiation of L. japonicus from the other two species. For the distinction of L. cardiaca and L. sibiricus, flower morphology has to be considered.

The presented data contribute to the quality control of the three Leonurus species and additionally meet a definite and timely need regarding the introduction of L. japonicus to the European Pharmacopoeia in addition to the already existing monograph of L. cardiaca.

Key words

Leonurus sibiricus - Leonurus japonicus - Leonurus cardiaca - yimucao - Lamiaceae - light microscopy - HPTLC fingerprint - quality control

^* Dedicated to Professor Dr. Max Wichtl in recognition of his outstanding contribution to phytotherapy research.

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