Authentication and Quality Control of the Brazilian Traditional Herb 'Carquejas' ( Species) Using Morpho-Anatomy and Microscopy.

This research investigates the morpho-anatomical characteristics of seven species, namely , , , , , and . Commonly called carquejas, these species have aerial photosynthetic winged stems known as cladodes and are widely used traditionally to treat digestive and diuretic disorders. This study aimed to characterize these commonly misidentified species using morphological and microscopic techniques, including light and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Trichomes, the presence or absence of oil bodies, and a subepidermal collenchyma layer at the wing edge were identified as primary anatomical markers that can help differentiate the studied species.