Antimicrobial Activity of Chloroform Extract of Leaves of Catharanthus roseus (L) G.DON

Abstract

Catharanthus roseus popularly known as Madagascar periwinkle is a potential source for antileukemic alkaloids. The present study aims to evaluate the possibility for the presence of novel bio-active compounds against pathogenic bacteria, as most of the pathogens develop drug resistance against commonly used antibiotics. To determine antimicrobial activity, crude extract from leaves of Catharanthus roseus were tested against bacterial and fungal strains of clinical significance. Extraction of bio-active components in appropriate solvent was followed by evaluation of antimicrobial activity by cup plate method against selected bacterial and fungal strains. Extract prepared from leaves showed significantly higher efficacy. Among the extract that were significantly active. The extract obtained using chloroform exhibited maximum activity against bacterial and fungal strains tested. Gram (+) stains and fungal strains were more sensitive when compared to Gram (-) bacteria. The study implicates that bio-active compound(s) of Catharanthus roseus could potentially be exploited as antimicrobial agents.