Studies on potential of Withania somnifera root extract against diabetic foot infection pathogens
Withaniasomnifera phytochemical analysis of root extract showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins saponins, carbohydrates, quinines and phenol compounds. Studies on the prevalence of diabetic foot infections showed a total of 88 isolates belongs to seven different genera. The standard antibacterial study reveals that E.coli and S.aureus were only isolated pathogens showed the high degree of resistant pattern against all tested antibiotics. S.aureus showed 100 percent resistant to penicillin, ampicillin and amoxicillin. Out of 40 S.aureus isolates, 23 were found to be methicillin resistant and 12 were vancomycin resistant. Similarly out of 22 E.coli, 18 were resistant to penicillin; ampicillin and nine isolates were resistant to amoxicillin. The antibacterial activity of W.somnifera root extract showed potent antibacterial activity at 5mg/mL against E.coli and S.aureus. Bio assay analysis of extracted compounds reveals that the Rf value of the active fraction is 0.38. Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrum of active fraction shows the presence of 7 different chemical constituents concludes further purification of active compound is necessary. The haemolytic study confirms that the extract is safe to use since there is no haemolysis of human RBCs. Further analysis of purification and characterization of an active fraction is required for structural elucidation.