Study of the morphological and anatomical structure of prickly lettuce (Lactuca serriola)

Introduction. Prickly lettuce (Lactucaserriola L.) is widespread in the European part of Russia. Its chemical composition has not been sufficiently studied; there are some publications by foreign scientists. The plant contains triterpene compounds, sesquiterpene lactones, steroids, and flavonoids; fatty seed oil has been investigated. Lettuce is widely used in folk medicine. For raw material identity, there is a need for morphological and anatomical data that are unavailable in the literature. Objective: to develop the characteristics of the identity of prickly lettuce, as well as to identify the morphological and anatomical signs of its raw materials. Material and methods. The investigation object was the fresh and dried prickly lettuce herb harvested in the Kursk Region in 20182019. The morphological features were studied using a binocular magnifier. The anatomical structure of various prickly lettuce organs was investigated on temporary micropreparations made according to the pharmacopoeia test procedures using a Micromed C1LED microscope with a digital adjutage. Results. The diagnostic morphological and anatomical signs of prickly lettuce herb were established. The main diagnostic microscopic signs are simple hairs of various structures and articulated lacticifers. Conclusion. New data on the morphological and anatomical structure of prickly lettuce herb were obtained.

Lactuca serriola L, prickly lettuce, Lactuca serriola L, herb, diagnostic signs, appearance, microscopy