Evaluation of Phytochemical Composition and Antibacterial Activity of Indigofera hirsuta Linn

Muhammad, M.U., Gayari, M.S., Idris, B., Garba, U and Bello, I

Department of Chemistry, Shehu Shagari College of Education, Sokoto

*Corresponding Author: buhariidris2017@gmail.com, doi.org/10.55639/607.1322


ABSTRACT

The phytochemical constituents of Indigofera hirsuta aerial part were assessed for their potential as sources of alternative medicines as well for industrial applications. Qualitative phytochemical screening of the extract revealed the presence of Flavonoids, Steroids, Alkaloids, Tannins, Saponins, Cardiac glycosides and Anthraquinones. Quantitative evaluation of the extract showed their concentrations to be Flavonoids (270.039+0.013 mg/100g), Steroids (9.100±0.007 mg/100g), Alkaloids (59.74±0.014 mg/100g), Tannins (21.66+0.03 mg/100g), Saponins (1.3+0.0001 mg/100g) and Anthraquinones (0.205+0.003 mg/100g). Our study indicated that the plant possessed different phytochemicals that determine its medicinal use. The crude methanolic extract was further tested at various concentrations to check its microbial activity against four bacterial pathogens. The results showed that the crude exhibited activity significantly at all concentrations against three organisms. (Streptococcus pneumonia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Shigella dysenteriae). Maximum activity was observed against Streptococcus pneumoniae (12 mm at 200 mg/ml, 11 mm at 100 mg/ml,10 mm at 50 mg/ml and 9 mm at 25 mg/ml). While minimum level of microbial activity was observed against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (9 mm at 200 mg/ml,8mm at 100 mg/ml,7 mm at 50 mg/ml and 6mm at 25 mg/ml. However, Proteus mirabilis showed no activity). This result suggested the potential use of Indigofera hirsuta for the treatment of diseases caused by bacteria.

Keywords:

Phytochemicals,
Indigofera hirsuta,
Aerial part
Antibacterial Activity