[Macroscopic and microscopic identification of Amomum tsao-ko and Amomum paratsao-ko fruits].

OBJECTIVE: To compare macroscopic and microscopic characteristics of the fruits of Amomum tsao-ko and Amomum paratsao-ko. METHODS: Transverse section and powder of pericarp and seeds of these two species were identified. RESULTS: The fruits of Amomum tsao-ko and Amomum paratsao-ko had similar microscopic characteristics. They could be distinguished from each other by the peri-carp color, furrows and ribs, and the shape of seeds. CONCLUSION: Above characteristics can be used as basis of pharmacognostical study of Amomum tsao-ko and Amomum paratsao-ko.