Phytochemical Analysis, Antimicrobial, Cytotoxic and Antioxidant Activities of Oenanthe javanica

Abstract

Medicinal plants are an integral part of life in many communities. They are source of vital therapeutic aid for assuaging human ailments and that is chiefly due to existence of biologically active phytochemicals. Oenanthe javanica, aquatic perennial herb, known for its medicinal values. The present research was conducted to investigate the chemical composition of essential oil extracted from Oenanthe javanica through GC-MS analysis; to evaluate the phytochemical constituents, cytotoxic capability and antioxidant activity of different extracts; and finally, to evaluate the antimicrobial potential of essential oil and different extracts of Oenanthe javanica. S-MS analysis shown that seven constituents are present in the essential oil. Phytochemical investigation has shown that Oenanthe javanica contains following components alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, phenol, and saponins in all its extracts except n-hexane extract which lacks saponins. Among all extracts only chloroform extract is found to be cytotoxic and best values for DPPH scavenging potential was exhibited by ethanolic extract. Some of the extracts of Oenanthe javanica possess antimicrobial potential whereas essential oil was only active against tested fungal strains.