Screening of Vernonia kotschyana for Antimicrobial Activity and Alkaloids

Abstract

Vernonia kotschyana Schultz-Bip. (Compositae) is used in Kano, northern Nigeria, as a remedy for schomachache. Screening of the plant revealed antimicrobial activity against Gremmpositive and Gramnegative bacteria, including some bacterial species known to be etiological agents of gastrointestinal disorders. Moreover, the parent ethanol extracts of the plant were found to be bactericidal. Some fractions of the plant extracts tested positive for alkaloids which may contribute to the antibiosis of the plant.