Evaluation of anti-bacterial, anti-fungal along with in-vitro anti-inflammatory activity of highly anti-oxidant rich flower of Ixora Coccinea

Abstract

Ixora coccinea flower also known as rongon, a perennial plant belonging to the family Rubiaceae, is used as phytomedicine to treat a number of chronic diseases including ulcer, inflammation, bronchitis, anemia, diarrhea, microbial infections, and skin infections. For exploration of pharmacological activities, the preliminary phytochemicals screening of the flowers are needed to reveal the presence of tannins, saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, and glycosides. In vitro experiments on the methanolic flower extract of Ixora coccinea have likely revealed several bioactive chemicals with potential health benefits. Phytochemical screening identified compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenols, known for their antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. The extract's Total Phenolic content was 20.18 μg GAE/mg, and Total Flavonoid content was 21.49 μg QAE/mg, indicating a significant presence of these compounds, which are effective against free radical damage. The extract showed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa with an MIC of 25 mg/ml and a zone of inhibition of 0.7 cm, and antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger with an MIC of 50 mg/ml. These dual antibacterial and antifungal properties suggest broad-spectrum antimicrobial potential, useful for treating infections like throat, skin, and urinary tract infections. Anti-inflammatory studies using heat-induced hemolysis, hypotonicity-induced hemolysis, protein denaturation assay, and proteinase inhibitory effect showed IC50 values of 357, 288, 242, and 259 µg/ml, respectively, comparable to aspirin. This strong anti-inflammatory potential indicates the extract could be tested for treating degenerative disorders like arthritis, dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and diabetes. In conclusion, Ixora coccinea flower extract shows promise as an antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory agent, warranting further in vivo studies to explore its full potential. Introduction: For centuries, mankind has turned to Mother Nature's botanical bouquet for healing remedies, relying on extracts crafted from vegetation's versatile vocabulary. Ranging from common calamus to curious calendula, countless plants proudly proffer preventative properties. Though contemporary cures clutch captivating careers, curious customers continually consider countless configurations carefully crafted from nature's nourishing nutrients [1]. Recently, renewed rapture regarding recognized remedies revived research into rich reservoirs residing within roots, rhizomes, leaves, and blooms. This unveils a universe of unpredictable utilities uniquely unleashed by assorted aromatic arrangements. While archaic applications anchored ancestral alleviation approaches, analyzing active accoutrements under an analytic argues eye advances our understanding from unexplained experiences to established evidence. Herbal medicines can be used for a wide range of ailments; from plants that contain extensive bioactive compounds that can be used to treat specific health disorders to antioxidant-rich combinations that support general well-being[2]. Flame of the woods flaunts its fiery flowers, a fantastic flash of colors casting light across the verdant vista. Ixora coccinea, a stalwart shrub of South Asian ancestry, emanates effusive efflorescence's in vivid reds, oranges, pinks, and yellows to liven landscapes with its luminous blooms. Revered for centuries in venerable Ayurvedic and antique Chinese medical arts, prudent practitioners prize particular plant parts for purported healing properties-soothing skin, speeding wound repair, regulating rises in body heat. Beyond mere decorative duties, this resilient evergreen renders valuable services, its versatile constitution contributing components that traditions have tailored to address afflictions. Though indigenous to India and Sri Lanka, it spreads spectacular splendor universally as a picturesque presence profuse with patterns of rainbow radiance [3,4]. Culturally, the species Ixora coccinea is often cultivated in gardens, parks, and as hedge plants due to its hardiness and adaptability to diverse climatic conditions. Its propensity to attract butterflies and birds adds to its popularity in landscaping. This adaptable shrub has also found use in landscaping, traditional medicine, and cultural customs, making it a plant with both aesthetic and utilitarian significance.