Phytochemical Analysis and Antibacterial Profile of Boerhavia Adscendens

The phytochemical and antibacterial profiles of the ethanolic extract of B. adscendens was carried out using standard established procedures. The result of the qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of Alkaloid, Tannins, Glycosides, Steroids, Flavonoid and Phenol while Saponins, Terpenoid and Anthraquinone were not detected. The phytochemicals detected were quantitatively determined; Alkaloid content 0.91± 0.04mg/g, total phenolic 0.112±0.06 mg/g and total Tannins 0.87±0.03mg/g of extract. Antibacterial activity revealed the zone of inhibition of Klebsiella pnemoniae 7.13±0.34mm, Shigella dysentriae 9.2±1.13 mm, Proteus vulgaris 8.6±0.59 mm, E. coli 8.6±0.55 mm, Salmonella typhi 7.63±0.41 mm at 50 mg/mlwhile at 100 mg/ml Klebsiella pnemoniae 9.3±0.18, Shigella dysentriae 12.5±0.59 mm, Proteus vulgaris 10.6± 0.31 mm, E. coli 11.6± 0.26 mm, Salmonella typhi 13.9±0.60 mm. This study shows the ethanolic extract of B. adscendens demonstrated the presence of phytochemical compounds with antibacterial properties. The study therefore lays credence to the use of B. adscendens in traditional medicine practice.