Histological and Histochemical Staining Techniques

Abstract

Section staining is the most fascinating part in preparation of specimens for microscopy. Though proper sectioning method is important, careful selection, utilisation of proper stain and suitable staining method are also the most crucial steps in microscopic study of crude drugs and their powder material. Toluidine Blue O, iodine–potassium iodide, phloroglucinol–HCl and Sudan III or IV are some of the stains which are used to distinguish different cellular details with ordinary light microscope. This chapter describes the different stains, their method of preparation, staining procedure and results of staining.