Microplate Alamar Blue assay for detecting anti-tubercular action of Albizia amara leaves

Abstract

Albizia amara (Roxb.) B. Boivin has been used historically for the treatment of septicaemia, malignancy, delirium, and convulsions. A decoction made from the bark is used to treat rheumatism, hemorrhage, and some bleeding disorders during pregnancy, as well as stomach pain and nasal issues. Albizia has active ingredients like flavonoids, alkaloids, steroids, phenolic compounds, and tannins, according to early phytochemical screening. Flavonoids and phenolic compounds have been shown to play an important role in anti-tubercular activity in previous research. This led us to investigate whether or not this herb possessed anti-tubercular properties. Mycobacterium tuberculosis was found to be sensitive to concentrations of Alamar Blue dye as low as 25 μg/ml when the anti-tubercular activities of petroleum ether, methanol, and an ethanolic extract were tested. The anti-tubercular activity of the extract and fractions is comparable to that of streptomycin, pyrazinamide, and ciprofloxacin. HPTLC has shown that flavonoids and phenolic substances are present, which may explain the activity that can be seen. Taking this research on Albizia amara leaves one step further could lead to the development of a natural medicine that fights TB that is safe and works well.