Abstract

PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING, ANTHELMINTIC, AND ANTIMITOTIC ACTIVITIES OF AQUEOUS AND ETHANOLIC EXTRACTS OF PERESKIA BLEO LEAVES

Dr. V. Vennila*, Deepa B. and Senbaga Priya R.

ABSTRACT

Background: The present research investigates the phytochemical composition and evaluates the In-vitro anthelmintic and antimitotic activities of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Pereskia bleo leaves. Belonging to the family Cactaceae, P. bleo has long been used in traditional medicine for treating hypertension, inflammation, and various infections. Materials and Methods: In this study, qualitative phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, tannins, glycosides, saponins, and coumarins in both extracts, suggesting significant bioactive potential. The In-vitro anthelmintic activity was evaluated using Pheretima posthuma earthworms, with Albendazole as the standard reference drug. The antimitotic activity was assessed through a seed germination inhibition assay using Vigna radiata (green gram). Results: The results demonstrated that both aqueous and ethanolic extracts showed dose-dependent anthelmintic and antimitotic activity, with the ethanolic extract exhibiting stronger efficacy. The study validates the traditional use of P. bleo and indicates its potential as a natural source of anthelmintic and cytostatic agents.

Keywords: Pereskia bleo, phytochemical screening, anthelmintic activity, antimitotic activity, Pheretima posthuma, Albendazole, Vigna radiata.