Author(s): Prathapa Reddy M, Shantha TR, Rama Rao V, Shiddamallayya N and BK Bharali

Abstract: The present communication deals on the pharmacognostical studies on the root of vanasarpagandha scientifically known as Rauvolfia tetraphylla L., which revealed some of the important diagnostic characteristics like longitudinal fissures on the outer surface of the root, greyish brown to reddish brown outer surface, compound starch grains, prismatic crystals of calcium oxalate in the cortex region, uni to biseriate medullary rays filled with starch grains, xylem vessels with pitted thickenings and elongated stone cells with broad lumen. Phytochemical studies revealed the presence of alkaloids, steroids, tannins, carbohydrates etc. Thin Layer Chromatography revealed the presence of many bio active compounds.