Antimicrobial screening of extracts from endangered Strychnos wallichiana.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Antimicrobial screening of different solvent extracts of an endangered medicinal plant, strychnos wallichiana steud ex dc
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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I. Veera Kishore, R. Ragalatha, N. Krishna, M. Vijayalakshmi and K. Mallikarjuna
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Antimicrobial screening of different solvent extracts of an endangered medicinal plant, strychnos wallichiana steud ex dc
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20183-10802
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study focuses on the medicinal plant Strychnos wallichiana, known for its valuable phytochemicals, particularly strychnine and brucine. This endangered species has been utilized in traditional medicine for various ailments, including snakebites, ulcers, and fever, due to its extensive therapeutic properties. Despite its significance, little research has been conducted on its antimicrobial potential against a diverse range of microorganisms. This work aims to explore the antimicrobial activity of different solvent extracts (N-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and methanol) from various plant parts, including the stem, leaf, root, and fruit coat.
Antimicrobial Screening of Leaf Extracts
One significant finding of the study was the antimicrobial properties exhibited by the leaf extracts of S. wallichiana. The agar well diffusion method revealed that chloroform and ethyl acetate extracts demonstrated the highest activity against tested microbes, including Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus, with inhibition zones ranging from 0.8 to 1.3 cm. The leaf methanol extract also showed considerable activity, particularly against Klebsiella pneumoniae, indicating a noteworthy antimicrobial potential. Lower activity was observed in N-hexane extracts, underlining the effectiveness of non-polar solvents in extracting bioactive compounds.
Assessing Stem Extracts' Antibacterial Activity
The study also evaluated the antimicrobial efficacy of stem extracts from S. wallichiana. Results indicated that chloroform and methanol extracts exhibited strong activity against Bacillus cereus and E. coli, with the chloroform extract achieving the highest inhibition zone of 2 cm. This suggests that the stem extracts are a promising source of antimicrobial agents. The findings indicate a consistent trend in antimicrobial activity across the stem and leaf extracts, implying the potential for these extracts to serve as alternatives for treatment against certain bacterial infections.
Fruit Coat Extracts and Their Limited Activity
In contrast to the promising leaf and stem extracts, the fruit coat extracts of S. wallichiana demonstrated minimal antimicrobial activity. The extracts prepared with ethyl acetate, chloroform, and N-hexane showed poor results against the tested microbes, lacking the necessary phytochemical constituents to elicit significant effects. This highlights the variability in antimicrobial efficacy among different parts of the plant, suggesting that the leaf and stem parts are more beneficial for medicinal use compared to the fruit coat.
Conclusion
The findings of this study underscore the antimicrobial potential of Strychnos wallichiana, particularly in its leaf and stem extracts. The significant activity against various microbes supports the idea that this plant can serve as a valuable source for discovering new antimicrobial agents, especially as alternatives to conventional antibiotics. However, the limited activity of the fruit coat extracts indicates a need for further research to isolate and identify specific compounds responsible for the observed antimicrobial properties. Future studies could enhance our understanding of S. wallichiana and contribute to its application in phytomedicine.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the significance of Strychnos wallichiana in medicine?
Strychnos wallichiana is an important medicinal plant known for its phytochemicals, including strychnine and brucine, which possess therapeutic properties for treating various ailments like snakebites, ulcers, and infections.
Which parts of Strychnos wallichiana were tested for antimicrobial activity?
The study tested extracts from the stem, leaf, root, and fruit coat of Strychnos wallichiana against several microbes to evaluate their antimicrobial properties.
What method was used for antimicrobial activity determination?
The agar well diffusion method was used to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of Strychnos wallichiana extracts, measuring the zone of inhibition around the wells.
Which solvents exhibited significant antimicrobial activity for leaf extracts?
Chloroform and ethyl acetate extracts of leaf showed significant antimicrobial activity, with high zones of inhibition recorded against certain microbes like Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus.
How did the fruit coat extracts perform against tested microbes?
The fruit coat extracts of Strychnos wallichiana exhibited poor antimicrobial activity compared to the leaf and stem extracts, indicating a lower concentration of active phytochemicals.
What potential does Strychnos wallichiana have for antimicrobial agents?
The study concluded that Strychnos wallichiana is a promising source of antimicrobial agents, warranting further research to isolate and characterize the active compounds responsible for its efficacy.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Antimicrobial screening of extracts from endangered Strychnos wallichiana.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Activity:
The term 'activity' in scientific studies often refers to the functional properties exhibited by a substance, in this case, the antimicrobial effects of various extracts from the plant Strychnos wallichiana. It is essential in understanding how effective a substance is against certain microbes.
2) Aureus:
'Aureus' refers to Staphylococcus aureus, a significant Gram-positive bacterium often studied for its pathogenicity. This bacterium is a target in the antimicrobial activities evaluated in the study, highlighting the importance of plant extracts in combating infections caused by such organisms.
3) Table:
'Table' refers to a structured presentation of data that summarizes the findings related to antimicrobial activity against various microbes. It allows for easy comparison of results, facilitating the interpretation of the effects of different solvent extracts on microbial growth.
4) Phytochemical:
'Phytochemical' denotes a natural compound produced by plants that may have health benefits, such as antimicrobial properties. The presence of various phytochemicals in Strychnos wallichiana is crucial for identifying potential therapeutic uses of the plant in medicine.
5) Mallikarjuna (Mallika-arjuna):
Mallikarjuna is likely a reference to one of the authors of the study, contributing to the research addressing the antimicrobial properties of Strychnos wallichiana. This highlights collaboration in scientific endeavors, essential for pooling knowledge and resources in research.
6) Genu:
The term 'genu' might refer to the Greek root meaning 'knee' or ‘joint’ but within this context, it emphasizes linguistic nuances that can arise. Its relevance may lie in botanical terminology or the common usage of nomenclature in describing plant structures.
7) Species:
'Species' refers to the basic unit of biological classification. Strychnos wallichiana is the specific species being studied, indicating its unique characteristics and properties in comparison to other members of the Strychnos genus, particularly in medicinal contexts.
8) Drug:
'Drugs' entails chemically active substances utilized for medical intervention. The study indicates a search for alternative drugs derived from plants like Strychnos wallichiana to address health challenges, particularly concerning resistance to conventional pharmaceutical options.
9) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
'Anti-bacterial' is synonymous with antibacterials, referring to substances that specifically combat bacterial infections. This highlights the essence of the study, as it seeks to identify the anti-bacterial properties of extracts from Strychnos wallichiana.
10) Nagarjuna:
'Nagarjuna' refers to Acharya Nagarjuna University, where the research was conducted. Named after the ancient Buddhist philosopher, this institution fosters educational and scientific advancements, supporting studies significant in identifying new medicinal plants and their therapeutic potentials.
11) India:
'India' is the geographical location where the study took place. Its rich biodiversity makes it an important area for ethnopharmacological research, like that conducted here with Strychnos wallichiana, aiming to uncover effective natural remedies.
12) Andhra (Amdhra):
'Andhra' refers to Andhra Pradesh, a state in India where Strychnos wallichiana is found. The region's unique flora contributes to the study's focus on indigenous plants with medicinal properties, reflecting cultural traditions in herbal medicine.
13) Pur:
'Poor' in this context often signifies a lack or deficiency, such as when referring to the minimal antimicrobial activity demonstrated by certain extracts. Understanding these limitations is critical to identifying which parts of the plant are most effective.
14) Swelling:
'Swelling' refers to an increase in size or bulk, typically due to inflammation or infection. Strychnos wallichiana is noted for its traditional use in treating conditions like swelling, highlighting its significance in folk medicine.
15) Science (Scientific):
'Science' encompasses the disciplines studying the natural world, including botany and microbiology. The research represents a scientific inquiry into Strychnos wallichiana, elucidating its antimicrobial properties and potential applications in medicine.
16) Botany:
'Botany' is the scientific study of plants, essential for understanding the characteristics, uses, and ecological importance of flora. This study contributes to botanical knowledge by analyzing the medicinal potential of Strychnos wallichiana.
17) Ulcer:
'Ulcer' is the singular form of ulcers, emphasizing a specific type of sore. The research points to the relevance of Strychnos wallichiana in possibly alleviating ulcer-related symptoms through its medicinal properties.
18) Nakar:
'Nagar' signifies a locality or area, relating to Nagaramu or Nagarjuna. In this context, it emphasizes the local relevance and cultural significance of the research setting within Andhra Pradesh, India, enhancing understanding of local plants used in traditional medicine.
19) Rich (Rch):
'Rich' refers to abundance, particularly in context of resources like phytochemicals in plants. The richness of Strychnos wallichiana in biologically active compounds underlines its potential for developing valuable antimicrobial treatments.
20) Pharmacological:
'Pharmacological' pertains to the study of drug action and how drugs affect living organisms. The research explores the pharmacological aspects of Strychnos wallichiana, promoting understanding of its therapeutic capabilities in treating infections.
21) Pharmacology:
'Pharmacology' is the branch of medicine that focuses on drugs and their effects on the human body. This study contributes to pharmacological knowledge by assessing the potential medicinal applications of Strychnos wallichiana extracts.
22) Tuberculosis:
'Tuberculosis' is a serious infectious disease caused by bacteria, often requiring potent antimicrobials for treatment. The search for new antibacterial agents reflects the urgency in addressing diseases like tuberculosis with emerging resistance.
23) Surrounding:
'Surrounding' refers to areas or environments around a location. In the study, it may emphasize the context in which the plant Strychnos wallichiana is found and its ecological interactions, which can affect its medicinal value.
24) Observation:
'Observation' denotes the act of watching or monitoring changes during an experiment. The research findings in Strychnos wallichiana involve systematic observations that document its antimicrobial efficacy against specific pathogens.
25) Discussion:
'Discussion' in academic writing is a section where the implications of findings are explored. It interprets results about Strychnos wallichiana and compares them with previous studies, contextualizing the research within broader medicinal plant literature.
26) Flavonoid:
'Flavonoid' refers to a class of phytochemicals known for their antioxidant properties. Their relevance in Strychnos wallichiana highlights the plant's potential health benefits, including its role in traditional medicine and possible applications in therapeutic settings.
27) Medicine:
'Medicine' encapsulates practices and substances used for health care and treatment of illnesses. The identification of antimicrobial properties in Strychnos wallichiana extracts supports the development of new medicinal treatments for infectious diseases.
28) Epilepsy:
'Epilepsy' is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. Traditional applications of Strychnos wallichiana for treating conditions like epilepsy underline its significance in herbal medicine and the need for scientific validation.
29) Disease:
'Disease' denotes any condition that negatively affects health. The investigation into Strychnos wallichiana seeks to address various diseases, emphasizing the plant's potential as a natural source for developing treatment options.
30) Krishna (Krsna):
'Krishna' could represent one of the contributors to the research. His inclusion signifies academic collaboration, indicating joint efforts in exploring the medicinal properties of Strychnos wallichiana and implications in pharmaceutical development.
31) Kannada:
'Kannada' refers to the local language spoken in Karnataka, India. It connects to the cultural context surrounding Strychnos wallichiana, revealing local knowledge and traditional uses that enrich the study's significance in regional medicinal practices.
32) Leprosy:
'Leprosy' is a chronic infectious disease that historically carries social stigma. Strychnos wallichiana's mention in treating such diseases highlights its traditional applications in folk medicine and the importance of ethnobotanical studies for modern therapeutics.
33) Thomas:
'Thomas' is likely referencing a scholar or author relevant to the research context. His contributions might support the framework or foundational principles in understanding the antimicrobial properties observed in the evaluated extracts.
34) Reason:
'Reason' denotes an explanation or justification for observations made during scientific research. In this study, understanding the reason behind antimicrobial efficacy helps propel further investigations into utilizing Strychnos wallichiana in therapeutic applications.
35) Water:
'Water' may relate to the solvent used for extracting phytochemicals from Strychnos wallichiana. It highlights the extraction processes essential for isolating active compounds necessary for assessing the medicinal potential of the plant.
36) Fever:
'Fever' is a common symptom of infections, and traditional medicine often seeks remedies to alleviate it. Strychnos wallichiana’s effectiveness against fever aligns with its traditional uses, indicating a broader health application within natural therapies.
37) Study (Studying):
'Study' signifies a systematic investigation into a specific subject. This research explores the antimicrobial properties of Strychnos wallichiana, contributing valuable insights into possible healthcare applications and understanding indigenous medicinal plants.
38) Ghat (Gham):
'Ghat' refers to a range of hills, often significant in geographical contexts. The mention in this research may indicate the specific ecological regions where Strychnos wallichiana is native, enriching the understanding of its environmental interactions.
39) Pain:
'Pain' emphasizes a common ailment treated by many herbal remedies. Strychnos wallichiana has historical uses in alleviating pain, making its investigation relevant in the search for natural alternatives in pain management.
40) Dish (Dis):
'Dish' typically refers to a receptacle for serving or holding food but in a laboratory context can relate to petri dishes used for culturing bacteria during antimicrobial testing. It underscores the methodology employed in studying Strychnos wallichiana extracts' efficacy.