Synergistic Anthelmintic Potential of Aerva Lanata (L.)A.L. Juss. ex Schultes, Psorelea Corylifolia L. and Cassia Alata (L.) Roxb.

Abstract

Objectives: Aerva lanata (Mountain Knot Grass), Psoralea corylifolia (Babchi), and Cassia alata (Senna or Candle Bush) are herbs used in Ayurveda and Chinese medicine for their pharmacological, anthelmintic, and antifungal properties, particularly in treating skin conditions like psoriasis, vitiligo, and fungal infections. This study explores the effects phytochemical constituents of mentioned plants and evaluates their anthelmintic activity. Materials and Methods: Bioactive compounds were extracted using standard phytochemical methods, and their efficacy against parasitic worms (Pheretima posthuma and Haemonchus contortus) was tested through in vitro assays. Six groups of six earthworms were exposed to 50 ml solutions of piperazine citrate, aqueous and alcoholic plant extracts (50 mg/ml) in distilled water. Piperazine citrate served as the reference standard, and distilled water as the control. Results: The time for paralysis (PT: 9 min 17 sec to 14 min 15 sec) and death (DT: 1 hr 42 min to 2 hr 20 min) of worms was recorded. Paralysis was defined by the absence of movement, and death was confirmed when worms lost motility and body color. The experiment was repeated with Haemonchus contortus worms using solutions in normal saline. Conclusions: This study highlights the therapeutic potential of Aerva lanata, Psoralea corylifolia, and Cassia alata as plant-based treatments for parasitic infections. Preliminary results show significant anthelmintic activity, suggesting they are promising natural alternatives to synthetic drugs.