Phytochemical and antibacterial properties of leaves of Alstonia scholaris R. Br.

Abstract

Phytochemical and antibacterial activity of leaves of Alstonia scholaris R.Br. was investigated. The different solvent extracts showed the presence of Iridoids, alkaloids, coumarins, flavonoids, leucoanthocyanins, reducing sugars, simple phenolics, steroids, saponins and tannins. Antibacterial activity was tested against both Gram +ve and -ve organisms. The methanol leaves extract exhibited broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against tested organisms. Maximum activity was exhibited against Bacillus subtilis followed by Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Chloroform and acetone leaf extracts exhibited lesser activity, while petroleum ether extract showed no inhibition. © 2009 Academic Journals.