Investigations on the morpho-anatomy and histochemistry of Aconitum napellus L

Aconitum napellus L. is a popular medicinal plant extensively used in homeopathy. This article provides detailed morphology and microscopy, including the anatomical and histochemical features of the herb, to aid authentication and quality control. In cross-section, the root in secondary growth shows the phloem surrounded by pericyclic fibers and a well-developed xylem. The stem is irregular in outline, displaying unicellular trichomes and many free collateral vascular bundles encircling the pith. The leaf is dorsiventral, hypostomatic with anomocytic and anisocytic stomata, and shows non-glandular trichomes. The floral parts are characterized by uniseriate epidermises, homogeneous mesophyll, anomocytic stomata on the abaxial surface, trichomes, and oval pollen grains. The tissue fragments in powdered herbs show these characteristics and have numerous starch grains with thimble-shaped, linear or star-shaped hilum. The detailed macroscopic and microscopic analysis provided in this study can help in the authentication and quality control of A. napellus raw materials. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Key anatomical, micromorphological, and microchemical features of Aconitum napellus are described. The results of the study can support the taxonomy of the genus Aconitum. Morphological standardization of the species reported here is helpful in the quality control of this herb.

[Woman, mother and... nurse]

The purpose of this paper is to reveal the meaning of the phenomenon "being a woman, mother and nursing professional" to nursing professionals through a qualitative study and a phenomenological approach. Women who work at a public hospital in the city of Rio de Janeiro are the subjects of this research. The analysis of their statements allowed the identification of meanings that made it clear that women consider it complicated to conciliate home, work and kids, especially when they are small. Thus, what can be inferred from their statements is that being a woman, mother and professional is a challenge for them, who constantly have their abilities tested.