Screening of Ageratum conyzoides Linn. and Alchornea cordifolia (Schumach. & Thonn.) Extracts for Antibacterial Activity

Abstract

Aim: To investigate the antibacterial activities of Ageratum conyzoides and Alchornea cordifolia as part of the exploration for new and novel bioactive compounds. Study Design: Aqueous and ethanol extracts were prepared and antibacterial effectiveness were assessed against common standard bacterial strains. Place and Duration of Study: Centre for Plant Medicine Research (CPMR) Ghana, between March 2013 and October 2014. Methodology: Crude aqueous and ethanolic extracts were prepared from the leaf of Ageratum conyzoides and Alchornea cordifolia. Antibacterial activities were analysed by well diffusion method against seven standard strains namely Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Salmonella typhi, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and             Proteus mirabilis. Results: The organisms showed sensitivity to Alchornea cordifolia. Ethanol (70%) extract of this plant exhibited the highest sensitivity as compared to the other ethanolic and aqueous extracts. Klebsiella pneumonia was also sensitive to aqueous extract of Ageratum conyzoides. Conclusion: The present study showed that Alchornea cordifolia is potential source of antibacterial agents and confirms its use in traditional medicine.