PHYTOCHEMICAL INVESTIGATION AND IN VITRO ANTHELMINTIC ACTIVITY OF PSIDIUM GUAJAVA

Dr. Shaik Mahammad Noorulla*, Syeda Daniya Fatima, Hafsa Tabassum, Abdul Azeem Ahmed and Salwa Fatima

ABSTRACT

Psidium guajava, a tropical fruit widely distributed in subtropical and tropical regions, has been recognized for its medicinal properties in traditional medicine systems. This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive phytochemical investigation of P. Guajava extracts and evaluate their potential anthelmintic activity through in vitro assays against parasitic worms. Phytochemical analysis of the extracts revealed a diverse array of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, phenolics, tannins, terpenoids, and alkaloids. These compounds have been associated with various pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial effects. The presence of such phytochemicals suggests the potential therapeutic value of Psidium guajava in treating various ailments. Subsequently, in vitro assays were conducted to assess the anthelmintic activity of Psidium guajava extracts against parasitic worms. The extract was studied in different concentrations (100, 200 and 300mg/ml). The anthelmintic activity P. Guajava extract in lower concentration is not significant, in higher concentration extract 200 and 300 mg/ml exhibited 53.96±1.820 and 42.14±1.91minutes paralysis time respectively when compared to the standard Albendazole which was 43.97±1.63 minutes. The death time recorded was 70.91±1.16 and 66.09±4.15 minutes respectively in comparison to the standard which was recorded to be 61.17±7.25 minutes. Effectiveness of the extract P. Guajava was inversely proportional to the time for paralysis (vermifuge) and death (vermicidal) of the worms. This suggests that P. Guajava extracts may interfere with the metabolic pathways or structural integrity of the parasites, leading to their expulsion or death. The findings of this study highlight the potential of P. Guajava as a natural source of anthelmintic agents. Additionally, the safety and toxicity profile of P. Guajava extracts should be investigated to ensure their suitability for therapeutic use.

Keywords: Psidium guajava, phytochemical investigation, anthelmintic activity, parasitic worms, in vitro assays.