Phytochemical Composition and Microscopic Characteristics of the Fruit Bark of Punica granatum L.

Background and Objective: The outer layer of the Punica granatum L. fruit exhibits a high degree of durability. The majority of the plant's components have been utilized in traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments. The medicinal properties of Punica granatum L. are anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial activities. The present investigation was undertaken to establish the foundational pharmacognostic criteria that should be employed in the evaluation of the botanical specimens. Materials and Methods: In this study, an analysis was conducted on the phytochemical composition and microscopic characteristics of the fruit bark of Punica granatum L. Quantitative phytochemical information was assessed by conducting tests on three distinct extracts derived from the peel of Punica granatum L. fruit. Results: The periderm of the fruit exhibits a diverse array of microscopic characteristics, encompassing fibrous elements, sclerotic structures, stone cells, prismatic crystals, both simple and compound starch granules, oil droplets and fully developed parenchymal cells. The bark of Punica granatum fruits contains various bio-active compounds such as saponins, quinones, terpenoids, phenols, tannins, alkaloids, betacyanin, coumarins, phlobatannins, oil and fats. However, it is notable that glycosides and anthocyanin are not present in significant amounts. Conclusion: Pomegranate has a diverse array of potential therapeutic properties due to the presence of numerous chemical constituents. This research may contribute to the production of standardized products derived from this plant.