Abstract
Morinda umbellata Linn. (Family Rubiaceae) is commonly known as “Nuna” in Tamil and “Pitadaru” in Sanksrit. The leaves in conjunction with certain aromatics in the form of decoction are used in diarrhoea and dysentry. The genuine sample of M.umbellata was collected. As part of the study genuine leaf, stem and root samples were collected and subjected to anatomical investigations. The air-dried leaf powder was extracted with different solvent systems such as petroleum-ether (40-60° C), benzene, chloroform, ethanol and sterile water and preliminary phytochemical analysis of the extracts including TLC and paper chromatographic assays were done and the Rf values were determined. Physico-chemical characters, fluorescence characters and extractive values of the leaf powder in different solvent systems were also determined. The pharmacognostical parameters studied, may be used as a tool for the correct identification of the plant and also to test the adulterants if any.