ASSESSMENT OF EUPHORBIA HIRTA FOR THEIR PRELIMINARY PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING, ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY AND NUTRIENT COMPOSITION

Abstract

Herbal drugs are amongst the oldest remedies, and India is known for her Ayurvedic treatments. Medicinal plants like Euphorbia hirta Euphorbiaceae-annual herb distributed all over India have been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of female disorders, respiratory problems, digestive troubles, and infections. Despite its immense potential, E. hirta remains one of the least promoted herbal drugs. The present study investigates the phytoconstituents, proximate composition and antibacterial activity of E. hirta was tested for antimicrobial activity against enteric pathogens and incorporated into recipes. Phytochemical screening of the aqueous extract showed the existence of flavonoids, alkaloids, polyphenols, and terpenoids for its antioxidant activities. Extracts made in ethanol were saponin-free and glycoside-free. The proximate nutrient analysis demonstrated a high calcium content in the leaf (342.03±7.01 mg) and whole plant (455.09±8.01 mg). Tested against both Gram-positive (Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Proteus vulgaris) pathogens using the disc diffusion method. Results on the antibacterial assay with inhibition zone; Ethanol extract of the whole plant was more effective showing the highest inhibition zone (18.9±0.05 mm) against B. subtilis, though ethanol leaf extract showed no activity against E. coli. Recipe trials were conducted by incorporating dried E. hirta powder into foods. On the other hand, Namakpare having 9% leaf powder showed comparable performance with the standard recipe and Parantha with 3% leaf powder obtained the maximum acceptability score. It signifies that the traditional usage of E. hirta for multiple diseases having antimicrobial property and it has a potential to act as a safer and cost-effective alternative to chemical drugs. Production of natural products using E. hirta might improve the accessibility of primary healthcare services, particularly in developing regions.