Botany of Umbelliferous Fruits

Umbelliferous Fruits

• Schizocarpic - they split into two single-seeded fruits called cremocarps
• Fixed oil and protein are the primary components

Fennel

• Anethole and Fenchone are key constituents
• Pharmacological effects include antispasmodic, carminative, diuretic, expectorant, lactation stimulant, flavoring agent, liver regeneration stimulant, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties
• Recent uses include anti-Candida activity, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis induction for potential anti-cancer treatment, and appetite enhancement

Anise

• Active constituents include volatile oil, primarily trans-anethole and also lipids rich in fatty acids like palmitic and oleic acids
• Microscopic features include separated mericarps, ovoid shape with 5 prominent primary ridges, no hairs, no vittae, crenate-beade appearance, and inconspicuous vittae

Hemlock

• Microscopic features include deeply grooved endosperm surrounded by an alkaloid-containing layer, campylospermous seed, no clear vittae, no parquetry layer, and an endocarp made of thickened and lignified U-shaped cells
• Uses include antispasmodic and anticonvulsant properties
• Constituents include piperidine alkaloids such as coniine, γ-coniceine, conhydrine, pseudoconhydrine, methyl coniine, and ethyl-piperidine

Coriander

• Constituents include volatile oils, mainly linalool
• Traditional uses include antispasmodic properties
• Current uses include hypoglycemic properties

Explore the fascinating world of umbelliferous fruits, including their structure, pharmacological effects, and key constituents. This quiz covers plants like fennel and anise, examining their uses in health and cuisine. Test your knowledge on their microscopic features and latest applications.