In vitro analysis of phytoconstituents and bioactivities of Senna alata L. leaf extracts

Abstract

Senna alata L. is a widely distributed medicinal plant mainly used to treat fungal infections. The objectives of the present study were to investigate the phytochemical constituents, antioxidants, thrombolytic, anticoagulant and anthelmintic potentials of the aqueous (AE) and ethanolic (EE) extracts of Senna alata leaves. The major phytochemical classes were checked through qualitative screening. Quantitative assays were employed to determine the total phenolic, flavonoid, flavonol, tannin, and protein contents. Antioxidant potential was revealed through the DPPH scavenging assay. The extracts were applied to dissolve blood clots to evaluate the thrombolytic potential. Prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) tests indicated the potential anticoagulant activity. The anthelmintic potential was evaluated by using aquarium worms (Tubifex tubifex). The presence of 9 different classes of phytochemicals indicated the chemical diversity of the extract. In the quantitative determination, EE was found to contain higher quantities of phytochemicals than AE. The highest DPPH scavenging activity (89.44%) was displayed by the EE at its 800 µg/mL concentration. The IC50 values of EE and AE were 61.02 µg/mL and 142.42 µg/mL, respectively. During the thrombolytic potential evaluation of EE and AE, 37% and 27% clot lysis abilities were observed respectively. EE paralyzed the aquarium worms at 4 min and killed them at 6 min. The leaves of Senna alata have the potentials for being utilized for medicinal purposes other than their traditional use as an antifungal agent. These findings can pave the way for the exploration of herbal remedies with better efficacy