Bioactivity evaluations from stem bark extract fractions of Myrica esculenta Buch. -Ham.ex D. Don

Abstract

The chemical constituents of Myrica esculenta (a plant distributed across Nepal, India, China, and Pakistan) are known for their potent antioxidant properties and reported pharmacological effects. The study used methanol extract to assess antioxidant activity (DPPH assay), anthelmintic effects (standard; albendazole and experimental organism; Eisenia fetida), anti-inflammatory properties (human red blood cell membrane stabilization), and cytotoxicity (brine shrimp lethality bioassay). The study revealed 39.06% yield with methanol and 2.01% with hexane. Phenolic and flavonoid content were measured at 96.43 mg GAE/g and 14.54 mg QE/g, respectively. Methanolic extract exhibited IC₅₀ of 60.89 μg/mL and LC_5o of 160.5298 μg/mL. It also demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity, notably achieving a 37.8% membrane stabilizing action at 500 μg/mL. Anthelmintic potential was observed at different concentrations (50 mg/mL, 75 mg/mL, and 100 mg/mL), leading to paralysis and death of worms with corresponding times reported. Brine Shrimp Lethality Bioassay revealed concentration-dependent effects. Methanolic extract of M. esculenta displayed robust antioxidant and anthelmintic activities. The extract was identified as bioactive, holding promise as a source for plant-derived antitumor compounds. However, further investigation is essential to validate these findings.