Antibacterial activity, antioxidant activity and micropropagation of Gymnema sylvestre R.Br. a valuable medicinal plant

Abstract

The present paper reports the antibacterial, antioxidant activity and In vitro propagation studies of a threatened plant, Gymnema sylvestre. G. sylvestre which belongs to the family Asclepiadaceae is a slow growing perennial medicinal woody climber commonly called as “Gudmar”. There is a growing demand for leaves of G. sylvestre in the pharmaceutical trade due to its use as a remedy for diabetes and also as a tonic of the nerves and as a laxative. Micropropagation of this plant is often difficult and expensive. In the present study the antibacterial activity of extracts of different G. sylvestre explants were performed against gram positive and gram negative bacteria by the disk diffusion method. The activities of the compounds were compared with standard strain for antibacterial properties of the imine base and its solvent extract evaluated and presenting in indicate that the compounds are active in exhibiting antibacterial role also carried out. G. Sylvestre exhibited potent antioxidant activity by inhibiting DPPH free radicals which indicates the roots and leaves extract is very much source of natural antioxidant agent. In vitro propagation is an alternative method of in vitro propagation of the threatened and endangered plant which can aid its conservation. The nodal and intermodal explants were cultured on MS medium containing different concentration and combinations of growth regulators like BAP and IAA. Multiple shoots buds were regenerated successfully from the nodal explants which were efficiently rooted on half strength MS medium supplemented with IBA. The regenerated plantlets were successfully transferred to the glasshouse, acclimatized and transferred to the field.