which of the following pteridophyte is the source of anthelmintic drug?

Options

A. Selaginella
B. Equisetum
C. Marsilea
D. Dryopteris

Answer

To determine which pteridophyte is the source of anthelmintic drugs, we need to analyze the options provided and their uses:

1. **Slaginella**: This pteridophyte is primarily used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases and some cancers, not as an anthelmintic. Therefore, it is not the correct answer.

2. **Equisetum**: Known for its economic importance, especially to stock farmers, Equisetum can be toxic when consumed in large quantities due to the presence of thiaminase, which destroys vitamin B1. It is not used as an anthelmintic drug.

3. **Marcellia**: This pteridophyte has been used for various medicinal purposes, including anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties. However, it is not specifically recognized as an anthelmintic drug.

4. **Dryopteris**: This is the correct answer. Dryopteris is known to be a source of anthelmintic drugs, which are used to treat parasitic worm infections.

Thus, the correct answer to the question is **Dryopteris**.