Phytochemical and antimicrobial analysis of “lupo” (Alternanthera sessilis L. R. Br.)

Abstract

In this study, the presence of selected phytochemicals from the aqueous, acetone, and ethanolic extracts was screened and the antimicrobial and antifungal potentials of the expressed juice of “Lupo” (Alternanthera sessilis) may be possible nutritional and medicinal values. The extracts were subjected to the tests for Alkaloids,Steroids, Anthraquinones, Flavonoids, and Tannins, using standard procedures in Guevara’s, A Guidebook to Plant Screening: Phytochemical and Biological,2005. The Kirby-Bauer technique of minimum antibacterial concentration and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) were used in the assay. Results show that alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, and anthraquinones, are present in all extracts of Alternanthera sessilis, while tannins is only in the aqueous extract. Alternanthera sessilis when extracted using water contains all the five phytochemicals tested, and is beneficial when mixed in food products, because it can supply alkaloids and steroids that exhibit dramatic physiological effects on the heart muscles. It can also supply natural cathartics or purgatives due to the presence of anthraquinones. Flavonoids present have antiviral, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic activities. Tannins present in aqueous extract have potential value as cytotoxic and/ or antineoplastic agents, and as astringents. Results of antimicrobial and antifungal analyses show that Alternanthera sessilis(Lupo) expressed juice possess an antibacterial activity exhibiting an MIC of < 100µg/mL against Escherichia coli referenced strain used. There is low MIC of 252.5µg/mL against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans.