Anthelmintic Activity of Indian Herbs: A Boon To Humankind

Modern synthetic medicines are highly effective in curing various diseases, but many of them show significant side effects. A large number of Indian herbs are claimed to possess anthelmintic properties. However, systematic study and standardization of activities are lacking. The present investigations are undertaken to evaluate and standardize anthelmintic activities of common Indian herbs. Aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Plumbago zeylanica, Myristica fragrance and Saraca asoca are studied with respect to in vitro anthelmintic activity against Eisenia foetida and Pheretima posthuma. Results are expressed in terms of time for paralysis and time for death. Albendazole (20mg/ml) is used as a reference standard. Ethanolic extract of Saraca asoca (50 mg/ml) proved to be the best death inducer against Eisenia foetida, whereas ethanolic extract of Plumbago zeylanica at concentration 50mg/ml showed highest anthelmintic activity against Pheretima posthuma.