Bioactivity studies on Musa seminifera Lour

Area of Science:

• Ethnobotany
• Pharmacology
• Phytochemistry

Background:

• Musa seminifera Lour, a perennial herb, is traditionally used in Bangladeshi folk medicine.
• Its roots are utilized for treating various ailments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To scientifically evaluate the antioxidant, analgesic, antidiarrheal, anthelmintic activities, and general toxicity of Musa seminifera Lour root extract.
• To provide evidence supporting its traditional medicinal applications.

Main Methods:

• Ethanol extract of Musa seminifera Lour roots was prepared.
• Assays included DPPH for free-radical scavenging, Folin Ciocalteu for total phenolic content, ferric reducing power assay for antioxidant activity.
• Analgesic, antidiarrheal, anthelmintic, and general toxicity (brine shrimp lethality assay) were evaluated in vivo and in vitro.

Main Results:

• The extract demonstrated significant free-radical scavenging activity (IC50 = 44.86 μg/mL) and antioxidant potential.
• It exhibited dose-dependent analgesic effects, reducing writhing and increasing pain threshold.
• Antidiarrheal activity was confirmed by prolonged latent period and reduced stool output; anthelmintic activity showed dose-dependent effects on helminths.
• General toxicity assay indicated an LC50 of 36.21 μg/mL against brine shrimp nauplii.

Conclusions:

• Musa seminifera Lour root extract possesses notable antioxidant, analgesic, antidiarrheal, and anthelmintic bioactivities.
• The findings scientifically support the traditional use of this plant in folk medicine.