Preliminary phytochemical analysis, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial evaluation of Carthamus lanatus

Abstract

Objectives: This study is aimed at examining alkaloids, tannins, saponins, flavonoids and steroids contents in methanolic extract of Carthamus lanatus and their antimicrobial (antifungal and antibacterial) and antioxidant activities.

Methods: The conventional phytochemical screening tests were used for the identification of secondary metabolites. Antioxidant, antifungal and antibacterial activities were carried out by using DPPH free radical scavenging method, agar tube dilution and agar well diffusion methods, respectively.

Results: Phytochemical screening showed the presence of alkaloids, tannins, saponins, flavonoids, caumarins, steroids and betacyanins. The antimicrobial activities of C. lanatus in methanol solvent were tested against gram +ve (Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Bacillus subtilis) and gram –ve (Escherichia coli) organisms as well as the fungus (Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus and Alternaria solani). For antimicrobial test, well diffusion technique was used and the zone of inhibition of microorganisms was measured in mm. Antioxidant assay measures by spectrophotometer the ability of antioxidants to reduce 2, 2- diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH), another radical not commonly found in biological systems.

Conclusion: C. lanatus is a very good antioxidant and antimicrobial plant. The presence of various secondary metabolites makes it a very significant plant for various activities.