DETERMINATION OF ANTIBACTERIAL POTENTIAL AND PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF SARACA ASOCA

Medicinal plants serve as a vital source of biologically active compounds featuring diverse therapeutic properties. This study investigated the phytochemical profile and antibacterial potential of Saraca asoca (commonly known as Seeta Ashoka). Leaf extracts were prepared using aqueous, methanolic, and ethanolic solvents. Their antibacterial efficacy was evaluated against Bacillus subtilis (MTCC#736) and Escherichia coli (MTCC #45) using the agar well diffusion method at application volumes of 20 µL and 40 µL per well. Preliminary phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of key secondary metabolites, including flavonoids, tannins, glycosides, saponins, and alkaloids. The distribution of these compounds varied by solvent, demonstrating differential extraction efficiencies. Among the formulations, the methanolic extract demonstrated the most potent antibacterial activity, yielding a maximum zone of inhibition of 15 mm against E. coli at a 40 µL volume. At a concentration of 40 mg/mL, the extract maintained a notable inhibitory effect against E. coli. The observed antimicrobial action is primarily attributed to the synergistic effects of phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, glycosides, and saponins, which are recognized inhibitors of microbial growth and metabolism. These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of Saraca asoca as a source of natural antimicrobial agents, validating its traditional medicinal applications.