Evaluation of Synergistic Anthelmintic Activity of Citrus Aurantifolia and Feronia Limonia Leaves Juice Extract Using Pheretima Posthuma Model

Abstract

With rising anthelmintic costs and resistance, there's a need for cost-effective alternatives. Synergistic effects of Citrus aurantifolia (Christm.) Swingle  and Feronia limonia (L.) Swingle are unexplored. The prospective anthelmintic effects of Citrus aurantifolia (Christm.) Swingle (Acidlime) and Feronia limonia (L.) Swingle (kaitha) leaf juice, as well as the combination of leaf juice on Pheretima Posthuma, were investigated in the current study using in-vitro studies. The anatomical and physiological characteristics of Pheretima Posthuma are similar to intestinal roundworm parasites of human beings hence they are used for in-vitro study. Different concentrations (20% 50%, 100%) of juice of acidlime and kaitha and a combination of juice of both leaves were tested. Results were articulated in terms of time (min) of paralysis and death of worms. The usual medication albendazole is used as a positive control in these experiments, whereas saline water is used as a negative control. Results of Anthelmintic activity were observed in dose-dependent manner. A comparison of combination of juices of acidlime and kaitha leaves at 100% concentrate with Albedazole medication demonstrated a comparable anthelmintic activity. Albendazole (10mg/ml) while individual juice at 100%, 50%, and 20% concentrate showed less significant activity against worm Pheretima Posthuma. This study demonstrates the possibility of juice of kaitha leaves combined with acidlime leaves as anthelmintic drug. The concentration of a combination of juices showed a better anthelmintic effect when compared to individual juice. The drug's phytochemical profile may be further examined to determine the active ingredient responsible for its anthelmintic effect.