Teklit Gebregiorgis Amabye
This study was carried out in methanol extracts of the dried leaves of Amaranthus spinosus were collected and used for phytochemicals, physiochemical and antibacterial analysis. By detecting the MIC (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration) and zone inhibition, the antibacterial activity was determined against different bacterial and fungal strains. The extract yields from the leaves was 6.97 methanol w/w. Phytochemical investigation of this plant determines that tannins 6.07%, Saponins 53%, alkaloids 13.14%, proteins 16.76% and glycosides 63.2% were rich in leaves. The extracts also contained appreciable levels of total phenolic contents 2.81 in GAE, g/100 g, total flavonoid contents 18.4 QE, g/100 and the free radical scavenging activity, showing IC50 (83.45 μg/mL) along with reducing power was calculated. The minimum inhibition concentration of extracts shows that 178 μg/mL. The physiochemical result obtained can be used for the identification of powdered drugs. The whole plant is used as a laxative. Traditionally it has been used as diuretic, antidiabetic, antipyretic, anti-snake venom, antileprotic, anti-gonorrheal, anti-inflammatory, and anthelmintic and immunomodulatory. The root paste of the plant is used to cure skin disease. A red pigment obtained from the plant is used for coloring foods and medicines. The results of this study suggest the possibility of using the methanol extract in treating the diseases caused by the tested organisms.
