Phytochemistry and microscopy of Tapinanthus dodoneifolius (DC) (Danser) (Santalales: Loranthaceae) (African mistletoes) from guava, rubber and orange host trees

Qualitative and quantitative phytochemistry, micro and macro-elements and microscopy of Tapinanthus dodoneifolius (DC) (Danser) (Santalales: Loranthaceae) collected from guava (Psidum guajava L.), rubber (Hivea brasilensis Mull. Arg.) and orange (Citrus sinensis (L) Osbeck.) trees was carried out. This was done with the purpose of comparing their pharmacological and biological contents. Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical screenings were done using described methods. Microscopic study was done with the aid of a light microscope and photomicrographs were taken using a 14-mega pixel Sony cyber-shot. Result of phytochemical analysis showed the presence of oxalate, phytate, saponin, alkaloid, glycoside and tannin in African mistletoes. These phytochemicals were present in proportions that varied with their hosts. The microscopic observation showed no significant differences in the internal structures of mistletoes from the three host trees. From this present study, more differences were observed in the phytochemistry than the anatomy of the mistletoes understudied.