Screening of plants used by North American indians for antifungal, bactericidal, larvicidal and molluscicidal activities

Abstract

Nineteen plant species from fourteen families used in the traditional medicine of North American Indians have been tested for their fungicidal (Cladosporium cucumerinum, Candida albicans), bactericidal (Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli), larvicidal (Aedes aegypti) and molluscicidal (Biomphalaria glabrata) activities. Of the species investigated, 9 were active against Cladosporium cucumerinum, 9 against Candida albicans, 12 against Bacillus subtilis, 18 against Escherichia coli, 3 against Aedes aegypti, and 11 against Biomphalaria glabrata.