Context: Light microscopy is in most cases a quick method for the identification and discrimination of medicinally used plant drugs; moreover, this technique is very inexpensive. Reliable descriptions of the anatomy of plants and their adulterations are prerequisites for necessary purity controls.
Objective: The anatomy of the subterranean organs of 18 pharmaceutically useful as well as related but inconsiderable Asteraceae species from nine genera (Taraxacum F. H. Wigg., Leontodon L., Scorzoneroides Moench, Hypochaeris L., Crepis L., Aposeris Neck., Cichorium L., Scorzonera L., and Tragopogon L.; tribe Cichorieae, Asteraceae) is described in detail and graphically illustrated. Features characterizing and discriminating the studied taxa are presented and discussed.
Materials and methods: The roots/rhizomes of various species were examined by means of light microscopy.
Results: Useful anatomical characters were found for the discrimination between the species, and some of them were examined for the first time.
Discussion and conclusion: Discrimination of most genera and species investigated was possibly based on the anatomy of their underground parts. The identified characters may be effectively used for quality control of commercial drugs and the identification of adulterations.