Antibacterial Activity of the Crude Leaf and Stem Bark Extracts of Alstonia Venenata R. Br

Abstract:     
Alstonia venenata R. Br, a member of family Apocynaceae is known for its medicinal value and considered as a powerful antidote for poisonous snake bites. The antibacterial effect of the crude leaf and stem bark extracts in solvent systems like hexane, benzene, isopropanol, ethyl acetate, methanol, and water were investigated. The isopropanol and methanol crude leaf extracts and benzene stem bark extract showed significant antibacterial activity against pathogens and Bacillus sps. The crude leaf extracts, which showed biological activity were fractionated and active compounds identified by thin layer, and column chromatography and other qualitative methods. They consisted of alkaloids, sterols, sterol glycosides and other polyphenols. All were analyzed for antibacterial properties.

Keywords: Phytochemical Analysis, Antibacterial Activity, Crude Leaf Extract, Stem Bark Extract,

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