Abstract
The crude drug 'CheonKun' is derived from the underground portions of Rubia species. However, the aerial parts of the plants are also sold under the 'GgogDuSeoNiIp' in Korea. To clarify the botanical origin of 'GgogDuSeoNiIp' the morphological and anatomical characteristics of the leaves of Rubia species growing in Korea, i.e. Rubia akane, R. chinensis var. glabrescens, R. cordifolia var. pratensis were compared. As a result, it was determined that 'GgogDuSeoNiIp' was the leaf of Rubia akane and R. cordifolia var. pratensis.
