Phytochemical Screening, Antioxidant, and Antimicrobial Properties of Leaf Extracts from Achyranthes aspera Plant

Abstract

The research paper investigates the phytochemical composition, antioxidant potential, and antimicrobial activity of leaf extracts from Achyranthes aspera, a widely recognized medicinal plant. Phytochemical screening of the leaf extracts revealed the presence of alkaloidys, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, tannins, saponins, and terpenoids, highlighting the diverse chemical profile of the plant. The antioxidant activity of the extracts was evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging assays, demonstrating dose-dependent scavenging activity and indicating their potential in mitigating oxidative stress-related disorders. Furthermore, the antimicrobial activity of the extracts was assessed against a panel of pathogenic microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, using standard microbiological methods. The results revealed significant inhibitory effects against both Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa) bacteria, as well as fungal strains such as Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger, suggesting their potential as alternative antimicrobial agents for the treatment of infectious diseases. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the pharmacological potential of Achyranthes aspera leaf extracts and underscore their significance in traditional medicine systems. Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific bioactive compounds responsible for the observed pharmacological effects, to investigate their mechanisms of action, and to explore their therapeutic applications in various disease conditions. By harnessing the therapeutic potential of Achyranthes aspera, novel herbal medicines can be developed to address global healthcare challenges and promote human health and well-being.