Original Articles
Sharly Elgal N. and Jasmine R.
Abstract
Adathoda vasica is a well-known plant drug in Ayurvedic and Unani medicine. It has been used for the treatment of various diseases and disorders, particularly for the respiratory tract ailments. In the present study, the antibacterial and phytochemical analysis of Adathoda vasica was thoroughly studied for fourteen different solvents against drug resistant human pathogens. The different extract was tested for antibacterial activity by disc diffusion method. The different dosage was determined by broth dilution method. Based on the zones of inhibition and MIC values, it can be concluded that Adathoda vasica can be used as a therapeutic drug. Antibacterial activity of ethanol extract of Adathoda vasica leaves were tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris, Klebsiella pneumoniae and E.coli through disc diffusion assay. Qualitative analysis reveals positive results for pharmacological constituents. These reports are very encouraging and indicate that the herb should be studied more extensively for its therapeutic benefits. To determine the growth inhibition against target respiratory isolates, minimal inhibitory concentration has been carried out by broth dilution method. The ethanol extract was found to be more effective in inhibiting the bacteria at a concentration of 3.125mg. As a result the study provides scientific evidence on traditional use of Adathoda vasica leaf extract in treating bacterial infections.