The basic purpose of the book is to present the subject in a simple language and easily understandable style for the benefit of the student and other readers. It covers the syllabus as prescribed by the Pharmacy Council of India in the Education Regulations-1991 implemented in the year-1993 for Diploma Course in Pharmacy. The present book is characterized by up to date information about the subject matter comprehensive treatment and sound observations. About the Author Mohammed Ali is Professor of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry and Former Dean of Faculty of Pharmacy Jamia Hamdard New Delhi. His profilic research and findings are evidenced by 290 research papers and reports published in scientific journals and contribution of some 220 papers in various conferences and seminars. He is the author of 12 books of pharmaceutical sciences. He is a member of eight scientific and educational societies. He has been awarded prizes for scientific contributions. He has carried out phytochemical work of mainly 310 medicinal plants.