• 2021-06
• Odusina B.O, Adeola A.A
• Volume 3, Issue 1

Abstract

Hymenocadia acida belongs to the family Phyllanthaceae. Leaves, bark and roots are used to treat hypotension, diabetes, epilepsy and schizophrenia. In this study, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of leaves extract of Hymenocadia acida were investigated. The extract was also screened for the presence of phytochemicals. The antioxidant activity was investigated using DPPH radical scavenging activity while antimicrobial activity was investigated using surface plate and agar diffusion methods. At concentration of 1.0 mg/mL, the leaves extract displayed significant antioxidant activities. The ICs,value calculated was 0.5 mg/mL. The extract was also active against all microorganisms used at concentration of 50, 100 and 200 mg/mL. Phytochemical tests revealed the presence of flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, steroids, saponins and cardiac glycosides. This study revealed that Hymenocadia acida is a good source of antioxidants, and also justifies or provides scientific evidence to support the use of this plant in the treatment of fever, diarrhea and mouth infections due to its antibacterial, antifungal activities and presence of bioactive secondary metabolites.