Evaluation of phytochemical and antimicrobial activity of Andrographis paniculata nees (Acanthaceae) aerial parts.

Abstract

The present study has been designed with the objective to examine the petroleum ether, acetone, chloroform and methanol extracts of Andrographis paniculata leaves and stems, in order to evaluate the chemical co mposition, investigate its in vitro antimicrobial potential against strains of Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus pyogenes, Klebsiella pneumonia, Proteus vulgaris, Candida albicans and Aspergillus flavus. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, steroids, phenols, tannins and saponins. The antibacterial act ivity is more significant against Gram positive bacteriu m Enterococcus faecalis whereas the antifungal activity is more significant against Aspergillus flavus. These results may justify the popular use of this species as it has antimicrobial activity. However, in order to evaluate possible clin ical application in therapy of infectious diseases, further clinical trials are required.