Use of Sodium Hydroxide in the Preparation of Epidermal Peels from Certain Coniferous Leaves Rich in Resins and Tannins

Epidermal peels free from resinous substances and tannins were prepared by treating specimens with 5% NaOH for 1-2 weeks at 40-45 C. After a thorough washing in water epidermal peels were obtained by removing the mesophyll cells by brushing with a soft-haired brush or by moderate agitation in water. Peels stained with iron alum hematoxyh or Bismark brown were found to be good enough to allow detailed histolopical investigation.