Isolation of toxigenic fungi from commercially available medicinal plant material

Abstract

Sun-dried commercial samples of six medicinal plant species widely used in Sri Lanka for treatment of diseases were used to isolate saprophytic and pathogenic fungi. Twelve species of fungi were isolated from various parts of plants on potato dextrose agar plates after surface disinfection. Aspergillus flavus (yellow-green form), a notorious toxigenic fungus was isolated from all 6 plants. Other potentially toxigenic species present were A. parasiticus, A. ochraceus, A. sulphureus, and Fusarium avenaceum. Duration of storage and environmental conditions play a vital role in the growth and formation of mycotoxins by molds on/in plant products. Screening techniques for known mycotoxins and quality control methods are essential in reducing the likelihood of contamination of medicinal plant material.