Assessing the Antioxidant Potential of Withania somnifera Leaf Extract via DPPH Assay

The rise of antimicrobial resistance has spurred interest in exploring natural sources for new antibiotics and antifungals. In this study, we investigated the antimicrobial and antifungal potential of Withania somnifera extracts against common pathogens. Various fractions (ethyl acetate, aqueous, hexane, and dichloromethane) were obtained from Withania somnifera and tested using agar well diffusion method against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Aspergillus fumigatus. Similarly, strong antifungal activity was demonstrated against A. fumigatus, particularly by the ethyl acetate fraction. While these fractions showed promising activity, standard antibiotics generally displayed greater inhibition. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of bioactive compounds like tannins, phenols, saponins, and flavonoids, which likely contribute to the observed antimicrobial and antifungal effects. Additionally, environmental factors influenced the phytochemical composition of Withania somnifera extracts, with roadside plants exhibiting higher levels of certain compounds due to vehicular pollution exposure. These findings underscore the potential of Withania somnifera as a source of natural antimicrobial agents and highlight the importance of cultivation practices for preserving medicinal properties.