Flashcards for Pharmacognosy 1 - Medicinal Seeds

These flashcards cover key concepts and details from the lecture on medicinal seeds in pharmacognosy, focusing on seed structure, types, and associated terminology.

What is the definition of a seed?

A plant organ formed in flowering plants as a result of fertilization induced in a mature ovule.

What structures are included in a typical seed kernel?

Embryo, endosperm, and perisperm.

What is the role of the hilum in a seed?

The hilum is the scar left by the removal of the seed from its funicle or stalk.

What is the micropyle in a seed?

A minute pore in the testa that allows for the transport of water during germination.

What type of ovule is characterized by being straight with no raphe?

Atropous or Orthotropous ovule.

Which ovule type is completely curved or inverted?

Anatropous ovule.

What is the function of the arillus?

An outgrowth that envelopes the whole or part of the seed.

Describe the appearance of foenugreek seeds based on macroscopical characters.

Oblong, flattened or rhomboidal, dark yellowish-brown, nearly smooth surface.

What is the primary active constituent of linseed?

Fixed oil contains not less than 30%.

Which plant family does cardamom belong to?

Zingiberaceae.

What are aleurone grains?

Grains composed of amorphous protein mass encircled by a dense protein membrane.

How does the anatomical structure of the seed coat contribute to its function?

The seed coat protects the kernel and can have various outgrowths for attachment or enhancement of seed dispersal.

What type of seed contains the endosperm surrounded by the perisperm?

Albuminous seeds.

What is the main purpose of seed dispersal?

To ensure the continuation and distribution of the plant.

How does the structure of the testa vary among seeds?

The testa can consist of one or two seed coats, which may fuse during development.

What defines a doubled seed coat in seeds?

It arises from two integuments surrounding the ovule.

Which ovule type has the raphe running from one end to another?

Anatropous ovule.

What is the primary protein constituent found in foenugreek seeds?

Proteins containing high quantities of lysine and tryptophan.

What distinguishes an endosperm from a perisperm?

Endosperm is the tissue surrounding the embryo; perisperm comes from the nucellus.

What is a typical characteristic of the placenta in seed anatomy?

The region where the funicle attaches to the ovule.

What is the significance of cotyledons in a seed?

They are the first leaves to develop from the embryo.

What is the embryonic structure that develops into the primary root called?

Radicle.

Which medicinal seed is known for having a mucilaginous oily taste?

Linseed.

What is the purpose of the yellow color of the raphe in certain seeds?

To indicate the attachment point of the funicle.

What does the term 'albuminous' refer to in seed classification?

Seeds whose embryos are surrounded by endosperm.

Which ovule type is characterized by a bent structure at an angle of 90º?

Amphitropous ovule.

What is the main flavor component found in cardamom seeds?

Volatile oil containing terpinyl acetate and cineole.

What demographic benefits do the seeds of Trigonella foenum-graecum provide?

They are helpful in cases of anemia, weakness, and anorexia.

What type of outgrowth covers the micropyle in some seeds?

Caruncle.

Name a seed that is completely surrounded by a thin endosperm.

Ricinus.

What is a distinguishing feature of the testa of cardamom seeds?

It is covered by an arillus.

Describe the tactile characteristics of a typical seed's testa.

May have a smooth or wrinkled surface depending on the species.

What defines a seed's color and odor as diagnostic characteristics?

They can provide information for identifying the type and quality of seeds.

Which compound is commonly tested for in foenugreek seeds due to its pharmacological significance?

Trigonelline.

What role do volatile constituents play in the properties of medicinal seeds?

They contribute to flavor and potential therapeutic effects.

What does the raphe indicate in the structure of a seed?

The ridge marking the fusion line between the funicle and the integuments.

Which family does linseed belong to?

Linaceae.

Why is it important to understand the anatomical structure of seeds?

To identify seeds and understand their functions in plant reproduction.

What is an example of a morphological characteristic of lamb's quarters?

Presence of coiled or strongly curved embryos.

How can proteins in a seed be used for identification?

By analyzing the types of aleurone grains present.

What can vary in appearance across different seed types but may serve similar functions?

The shape and size of seeds.

What indicates the end of a seed's funicle?

The hilum.

What condition is necessary for a seed to germinate?

Water must be absorbed through the micropyle.

What is the purpose of starch deposits in seeds?

To provide nutritional stores for the developing embryo during germination.

What is an avascular structure often found in seeds?

Testa.

What distinguishes the cotyledons of dicots from those of monocots?

Dicots typically have two cotyledons, while monocots have one.

What type of oil is predominantly stored in foenugreek seeds?

Fixed oil.