Phytochemical evaluation and In vitro Antimicrobial activity of Jatropha glandulifera Roxb. (Family Euphorbiaceae)

Abstract

In vitro antibacterial activity of J. glandulifera Roxb. was tested against nine bacterial strains. The successive extraction of leaves and roots was carried out in solvents like petroleum ether, ethanol and methanol. Qualitative phytochemical analysis showed primary and secondary metabolites like- alkaloids, carbohydrates, fats, flavonoids, lignin, lipids, polyphenols, proteins, starch, saponins tannins. Microorganisms responsible for various infectious diseases especially diarrhoea and dysentery was screened. Zone of inhibition were measured and compared with standard values of antibiotics, tannic acid and quercetin. Maximum activity was recorded in order of methanol < ethanol < pet ether extracts. The extract of roots in methanol displayed potent antimicrobial activity against the major organisms causing diarrhoea, dysentery and other. Thus, the resultant anti-microbial activity may be due to presence of secondary metabolites like- tannins, flavonoids etc.