Exploration of antibacterial potential of Melia azedarach L

Melia azedarach L. belongs to one of the most versatile medicinal plants family meliaceae (mahogany) which has great attraction for researchers. The plant was selected for research because it was one of the least explored members. The presence of saponin, alkaloids, tannins and flavonoids in the leaves extracts of plant indicated its medicinal value. These compounds have pharmacological effects against cancer, viral and malarial infections that are one of the main causes of deaths. With passage of time most of bacterial strains develop resistance against traditional medicines so they are needed to be upgraded or replaced. There is a need to develop antimicrobial agents with more effectiveness and minimum side effects. There are some reports from last two decades that Melia azedarach is a potential source of novel antibodies. Its extracts have both antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Powdered leaves of M. azedarach were extracted with methanol and extract was preliminary examined by phytochemical tests and thin layer chromatography. The different concentrations of extracts showed good antibacterial activities against three pathogenic bacterial strains Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Bacillus thuringiensis. The results indicated that M. azedarach L. could be an effective source of herbal medicines against infectious diseases.