Phytochemical screening and antibacterial activities of cassia fistula leaf extracts on some selected pathogens

Abstract

Cassia fistula, commonly known as golden shower tree has for long been used for treatment of number of ailment as decoction from its leaves by many. This study was carried out with the aim to evaluate the antibacterial activity and investigate the phytochemical properties of the leaves of Cassia fistula plant. Hot water, cold water and ethanol extracts of leaves of Cassia fistula were examined against medically important bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumonia and Salmonella typhi) by agar disc diffusion method using different extracts concentration. There was a remarkable inhibition of the bacterial growth against all tested organisms with highest activity seen at 100µg/ml for all the hot water, cold water and ethanol extract. Phytochemical analysis was carried out to determine the phytochemical constituents present in the leaf. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of capric acid, palmitic acid, oleic acid, 1, E-11, Z-13-octadriene, 9-octadecenal, brassidic acid. The result from this study is an indication that Cassia fistula leaf is effective against these pathogens and can be further exploited for the development of new antimicrobials.