|
Results:
Chromatograms serve as fingerprints for
future reference of the particular plant species. They are
added to the monographies in preparation. Despite morphological
homogeneity within a species, however, we can observe phytochemical
variation across different individuals. Variation may be
due to the genotype of the individual plant or be influenced
by factors such as habitat type, soil, neighbourhood, time
of day, age, or reproductive status. People consider the
plant’s location when choosing herbal parts. Knowledge
of the “cryptic diversity” of the Congolese Flora
is needed in order to evaluate the potential of these plants
as genetical or pharmacological natural resources. It needs
to be incorporated in conservation plans that are a necessary
and overdue task. |
|