In the present study, two medicinally important plants, namely Stachys parviflora and Calotropis procera were explored for their chemical composition, mineral profile and antimicrobial activity. For this purpose, the selected plans were collected from their natural habitat and their various parts (roots, stems, leaves, flowers, fruits and seeds) were analyzed for moisture, ash, fibre, fat, protein and carbohydrate contents. The results showed that both the plants were nutritionally rich with good computed energy. Regarding the mineral analysis, sufficient amount of essentials macro- (Na, K, Ca, Mg and P) and micro- (Fe, Zn, and Cu) mineral were found in all parts of the plants. Both the plants accumulate variable quantities of these elements which can provide a part of the recommended dietary allowance (RDA). The antimicrobial activity of the aqueous, ethanol, ethyl acetate and n-hexane extracts of both the plants exhibited quantifiable inhibitory effect against the pathogenic six bacterial strains (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus atrophaeus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Salmonella typhi and a fungal strain (Candida albicans). Based on the results obtained, the studied plants were found to be a potential source of food diet with natural minerals and good antimicrobial activity.
Antimicrobial activity, Chemical composition, Mineral profile, Stachys parviflora, Calotropis procera
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