Phytochemical, trypanocidal and anti-microbial studies of <i>Enantia chlorantha</i> (Annonaceae) root

Abstract

Crude extract of Enantia chlorantha root was assayed for its toxicity against Trypanosoma cruzi trypomastigotes. The antimicrobial activity was also investigated, in a screening conducted using seven strains of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Micrococcus lutens, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus faecalis, Bacillus subtilis) and the yeasts, Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger. Preliminary phytochemical analysis and acute toxicity test of the extract in mice was also carried out. The ethanol extract exhibited significant dose-dependent anti-parasite viability activity. At the doses of 100, 200 and 400 mg/ml the extract reduced parasite viability to 28.50, 44.20 and 53.10 % respectively comparable to gentian violet (68.5 %). The activity against Trypanosoma cruzi is expressed as percentage (%) of the trypomastigotes viable. To assess the antibacterial activity, the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were determined. The inhibitory activities of the ethanol extract against the test organisms were compared with gentamicin. The Enantia chlorantha root was more effective against bacteria than fungi when compared to the control. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, reducing sugars, flavonoids, tannins, saponins and glycosides. The LD₅₀ in mice was 4325 mg/kg. The study justifies the use of Enantia chlorantha in traditional medicine for the treatment of infections.

Keywords: Enantia chlorantha, Trypanosoma cruzi, antimicrobial activity, antibacterial activity

Journal of Pharmaceutical and Allied Sciences, Vol. 7 No. 4 (2010)