Taxonomic studies based on leaf epidermal microanatomy using high-resolution microscopy in Lamiaceous species and their antimicrobial effects

The knowledge of essential oil antimicrobial activity of Lamiaceous species is assessed to describe its effects. The comprehensive foliar trichomes and stomatal morphology of the leaves of essential oil-bearing plants from the family Lamiaceae revealed diverse antimicrobial properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the foliar anatomical traits of 19 Lamiaceous taxa belonging to different tribes using light and scanning electron microscopy to correctly diagnose the species. The microanatomy of the foliar epidermis, trichomes diversity, and the stomatal apertural complex was visualized. Quantitative measurements were noted to describe the variations and the qualitative aspects for example, polygonal shape epidermal cells were examined. The stomatal aperture of four types and trichomes appendages both non-glandular and glandular was identified. Significant variation was found in both quantitative and qualitative traits, including unique ornamentation on the trichomes. The taxonomic key was constructed for accurate identification using qualitative morpho-structural traits. The outcomes of this research explored taxonomically to accurately identify the Lamiaceous species using anatomical characters. This study will provide provides the ecological adaptation linked to evolutionary traits of leaf surfaces that evolve with time to adapt the harsh environmental conditions.

Automated summary

The antimicrobial properties of essential oil-bearing plants from the family Lamiaceae were assessed through the examination of their foliar trichomes and stomatal morphology. The anatomical traits of 19 Lamiaceous taxa were investigated using microscopy to accurately diagnose the species. Significant variations were found in both quantitative and qualitative traits, and a taxonomic key was constructed for accurate identification. This study provides important insights into the ecological adaptation and evolutionary traits of Lamiaceous species.