PHYTOCHEMICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF CASSIA AURICULATA
Sundaram Kumar Singh, Surbhi Srivastava, Ujjwal Khare, Tarun singh Rajput, Namrata Soni
ABSTRACT
Cassia auriculata Linn., a plant widely used in traditional medicine, is known for its diverse therapeutic applications, particularly in the treatment of diabetes, infections, and inflammation. This study aims to evaluate the phytochemical composition and pharmacological activities specifically antioxidant and antimicrobial of its ethanolic extract. The dried flower material of Cassia auriculata was extracted using ethanol, yielding 3.25% w/w. Preliminary phytochemical screening was performed using standard tests. Antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH radical scavenging assay, while antimicrobial activity was evaluated using the agar well diffusion method against Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans. Results were compared with standard drugs (Ascorbic acid, Ofloxacin, and Fluconazole). Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, phenols, proteins, saponins, and diterpenes. The extract exhibited moderate antioxidant activity with an IC?? of 68.68 µg/mL compared to 18.74 µg/mL for ascorbic acid. Antimicrobial testing showed dose-dependent inhibition zones, with maximum activity observed at 100 mg/mL. Although less potent than standard antibiotics, the extract demonstrated measurable efficacy against both bacterial and fungal strains. The ethanolic extract of Cassia auriculata possesses significant antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, supporting its traditional medicinal use. These effects are likely due to its rich phytochemical profile, particularly phenolic and flavonoid content. Further studies are needed to isolate active constituents and explore their mechanisms of action.
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