In vitro Anthelmintic Activity of Stem Extracts of Piper betle Linn Against Pheritima Posthuma

Abstract

In this study the anthelmintic activity of ethanolic and aqueous extracts of stems of Piper betle Linn was performed. Indian adult earthworms were used for the assessment of anthelmintic activity. Albendazole (40 mg/ml) was used as standard and normal saline water was used as vehicle respectively. Observations were made for the time taken to paralysis and death. In ethanolic extract [P (min) = 1.15, D = 2.16], the activity was found to be more effective as compared to the standard drug Albendazole [P (min) = 2.34, D (min) = 5.68] and aqueous extract [P (min) = 4.38, D (min) = 7.16]The mode of action of Albendazole is to cause paralysis of worms and to expel them in the feaces. Albendazole causes degenerative alterations in the intestinal cells of the worm. Degenerative changes in organs like endoplasmic reticulum, the mitochondria results in decreased production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the energy required for the survival of the helminthes. Due to diminished energy production, the parasite is immobilized and eventually dies. The ethanolic extract of stems of Piper betle Linn not only demonstrated anthelmintic property but they also caused death of the worms when compared with marketed standard preparation i.e. Albendazole (40mg/ml) and different concentrations of aqueous extract. It is concluded that stems of Piper betle Linn is potent anthelmintic. Since this is the preliminary work, separation of chemical constituents which are responsible for the activity may be done in the future.