Analysis of the morphological characteristics, microstructural anatomy, and powdered herb Curcuma aromatica Salisb.

Abstract

Wild turmeric (Curcuma aromatica Salisb.) is a valuable medicinal species, commonly used in traditional medicine to treat infections, cancers, and wound healing. The correct identification of medicinal plants is most important in the context of developing raw material areas for pharmaceutical production. In this study, the characteristic morphological features of White turmeric were described. The results noted that the plant has pseudostems that can grow up to 1 meter tall. Young leaves exhibit a light burgundy area at the main vein. The cross-section of the rhizome and tuberous root had a yellow color and distinctive aroma. Inflorescences grow from the rhizome before leaves appear. Infertile bracts are pink. Fertile bracts are light green. Large labelums are white with yellow-orange midribs. One fertile stamen, anther connective generally elongated into a short crest; the base of the anthers extends into sharp awl-shaped spurs. The ovary is spherical with hairs, and the stigma has a funnel-shaped, flared knob. In addition, the anatomical characteristics of each plant’s organ and the microstructure of the herbal powder were also analyzed, with remarkable: tetracellular stomata, yellow secretory cells, dark yellow plastic mass, and cubic crystals. The results of the study contribute to completing the database to serve the needs of accurate identification and testing of medicinal herbs in wild turmeric species, a premise for the selection, breeding, conservation, and development of medicinal areas in Vietnam.