Abstract

Elemental analysis, phytochemical screening and antimicrobial activities of aqueous and ethanolic leaf extract of Pilostigma reticulatum (dc) Hochst were studied using paper disc diffusion method against Streptococcus pyogen, Escherichia coli and Salmonella thvpi. Elemental analysis of the plant sample revealed the presence of Ca (1.51 ± 0.01μg/g), Mg (0.43 ± 0.02μg/g). P (0.29 ± 0.01 μg/g), Mn (3.01 ± 0.01 μg/g), Fe (1.04 ± 0.01 μg/g), Zn (1.05 ± 0.02 and Cu was below detectable limit(BDL).The results of the antimicrobial studies indicated that the extracts inhibited the growth of one or more tested pathogens.The ethanolic extract showed a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity. Phytochemical investigation revealed the presence of tannins, alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, carbohydrates and terpenes. Anthraquinone and saponin were not present. Inhibition zone by the extract ranges from 4.0mm to 30mm.The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) ranges from 8.0 x102 µg/ml to 1x104 µg/ml. Pilostigma reticulatum leaf may be able to produce antimicrobial agents in drug delivery.

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