Integrated microscopic, HPTLC, and HRM analyses for differentiating Centella asiatica (L.) Urb., Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst, and Hydrocotyle umbellata L.

ABSTRACT: In the herbal market, Bacopa monnieri and Centella asiatica are often used interchangeably, which can lead to mislabelling, especially since both are known as "Brahmi" in some regions of India. Similarly, in Thailand, C. asiatica is frequently confused with Hydrocotyle umbellata due to their similar appearance. Both countries are recognized as raw herbal material markets. This study employed a comparative approach using cell morphology, chemical fingerprinting, and DNA profiling to differentiate these herbs. Authentic samples were first analysed to establish species-specific identifiers which were then applied to commercial herbal products obtained online. Microscopic analysis revealed that B. monnieri had glandular trichomes and wavy epidermal cells, whereas C. asiatica featured unicellul

SUBMITTER: Suksawat M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12218382 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature