Root Anatomy

About Roots

Roots have been a part of natural medicine for centuries.  Some examples of roots used as botanical remedies are Abscess root, Henna root, and Licorice root.  Many modern medicines were initially derived from plants, for instance, inulin came from dahlias roots

A root is the part of the plant that anchors the plant to the ground.  Roots are usually found underground.  They offer the plant support and nourishment by transporting water and nutrients from the ground to the stem.

 

Parts of a Root

Roots have a variety of different parts.  See the diagram on the left to identify what each part of the root is.

dicot.jpgEpidermis:  Is the outer surface of the root.  It protects the inner structures.

Cortex:  Makes up most of the root.

Endodermis:  A layer of tightly packed cells on the innermost surface of the cortex.

Pericycle:  The outer wall of the Vascular Cylinder (center of the root).   It contains several layers,  This is where the lateral roots grow from.

Xylem:  Part of the Vascular Cylinder.  It is vascular tissue in the root that transports water and nutrients upward in the root.  Makes the woody part of the root,

Phloem:  Part of the Vascular Cylinder.  It is a vascular tissue that transports food made by photosynthesis to all parts of the plant.

 


Diagram of roots

   Picture of roots 

 

 

 

 © 1stChineseHerbs.com 2016

References
https://ag.arizona.edu/pubs/garden/mg/botany/roots.html
http://www.naturecures.co.uk/rootvegetables.htm
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_plants_used_in_herbalism
Image reference: http://ap-bio-chs-plants.wikispaces.com/Primary+Structure+of+Roots+and+Stems
 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Dicotyledoneae_Asteraceae_herb_-_root_system,_primary_root_becomes_tap_root_and_lateral_roots.JPG
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:2011-03-22_Poa-annua-roots.JPG
This image was found in a search for an image licensed for reuse on 3-28-2016