Phytochemical characterization and anthelmintic evaluation of Manilkara hexandra (Roxb.) seeds extracts

The seeds of Manilkara hexandra were collected from the Satpuda Ranges, authenticated, shade-dried, and powdered. A sequential extraction was performed using 70% ethanol via double maceration. Physicochemical parameters, including ash values (total ash: 3.82% w/w; acid-insoluble ash: 0.68% w/w), moisture content (28.57%), and elemental composition were determined. Extractive yields were evaluated in methanol, water, chloroform, and petroleum ether, with methanol exhibiting the highest extraction efficiency. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, and cardiac glycosides, while flavonoid quantification confirmed significant levels in the ethanolic extract. Anthelmintic activity was assessed against Pheretima posthuma and Tubifex tubifex at concentrations of 5, 10, and 15 mg/mL, using piperazine citrate as the reference standard. The ethanolic extract demonstrated dose-dependent anthelmintic effects, with paralysis and death times comparable to the standard (p>0.05). These findings validate the traditional use of M. hexandra seeds as an anthelmintic agent and highlight the efficacy of ethanolic extraction for bioactive compound recovery. The study suggests the potential for developing plant-based anthelmintic formulations, though further isolation of active constituents and in vivo studies are recommended.